Sarah Lee,
Here is a quote from our esteemed Dr. Lamm...
Complications of BCG
BCG is expected to cause mild burning with urination and increased frequency of urination, and may cause mile flu-like symptoms. Patients who are prone to arthritis may have increased joint stiffness, and even pain and swelling. With repeated treatment there is a risk that the bladder may decrease is size.
www.bcgoncology.com/treatment/bcg.html
I had a terrible arthritic reaction and I have heard privately from only one other person on this forum who had a similar and terrible arthritic reaction to BCG. Both this poster and myself have a previous skin condition known as Psoriasis. Psoriasis is an immune system condition which can progress to a serious arthritic condition of Psoriatic Arthritis. My guess is (because the Docs don't seem to know) is that the extent of the reaction was caused because of the pre-existing condition exacerbated by stimulation of the immune system via BCG.
I've done lots of reading about this. This rather chronic reaction is a very, very, very small percentage of BCG population...
Generally, as gleaned from my research, the joint stiffness of BCG is a temporary reaction.
My own debilitating reaction has become increasingly less severe with time. I don't even need Celebrex anymore.... ;D
Best,
Rosemary