I have been a long time sufferer of widespread eczema for all my life, and I have tried all sorts of medications, most of which have had varying degrees of success, though none have actually "cured" my condition.
at the beginning of this year, after having a very bad spell of eczema coverage due to stress, my consultant put me on a course of methotrexate.
I started on a tester dose of 5mg per week to see if I would have any adverse reactions to it, and after getting the green light 2 weeks later, I was upped to 10mg per week.
over the course of the year, I was increased to 20mg per week, followed by a week at 22.5mg. after going to see my consultant to discuss the previous blood test results, he told me I was beginning to show signs of potential adverse reactions to the dosage, and was dropped back down to 20mg even though I didn't feel much different physically.
I have a couple of questions about the side effects to methotrexate.
firstly, regarding hair loss.
before starting taking methotrexate, I had long term problems with eczema on my scalp, and it was by far the most active area on my body. it was so bad that my hair was starting to thin to the point where my friends were commenting about it.
since being on methotrexate, my hair has regained most, if not all its thickness back.
I am well aware of the loss of hair as a side effect, but can the drug itself cause the opposite effect, and stimulate hair growth, or is the regrowth simply what should be normal for me now as my scalp is fairly inactive?
I'm concerned that if/when my consultant advises me that I should come off methotrexate, the thinning is going to reappear.
secondly, this past week I have been experiencing discomfort in my left knee and top right thigh.
the only way I can describe the sensation in my knee, is like a mild electric shock (not too dissimilar to when you knock your funny bone in your elbow, though not as intense) if pressure is placed on it. the sensation fades after a few seconds of self massage, but then returns if I touch my knee later.
the feeling in my thigh, and at the top of my right leg, is just one of general aching.
are these sensations attributed to methotrexate, or could there be some other underlying issue? should I mention this to my consultant the next time I see him.
also, as an additional enquiry, should I be worried about swine/seasonal flu whilst on methotrexate?
I have already discussed this with my consultant, and he said I should be careful who and what I come into contact with. he also advised me that I should continue the course of treatment.
I would appreciate any advice given as to the extent of the increased risk I am at with regards to flu, both swine and seasonal.
thanks.
Luca.
at the beginning of this year, after having a very bad spell of eczema coverage due to stress, my consultant put me on a course of methotrexate.
I started on a tester dose of 5mg per week to see if I would have any adverse reactions to it, and after getting the green light 2 weeks later, I was upped to 10mg per week.
over the course of the year, I was increased to 20mg per week, followed by a week at 22.5mg. after going to see my consultant to discuss the previous blood test results, he told me I was beginning to show signs of potential adverse reactions to the dosage, and was dropped back down to 20mg even though I didn't feel much different physically.
I have a couple of questions about the side effects to methotrexate.
firstly, regarding hair loss.
before starting taking methotrexate, I had long term problems with eczema on my scalp, and it was by far the most active area on my body. it was so bad that my hair was starting to thin to the point where my friends were commenting about it.
since being on methotrexate, my hair has regained most, if not all its thickness back.
I am well aware of the loss of hair as a side effect, but can the drug itself cause the opposite effect, and stimulate hair growth, or is the regrowth simply what should be normal for me now as my scalp is fairly inactive?
I'm concerned that if/when my consultant advises me that I should come off methotrexate, the thinning is going to reappear.
secondly, this past week I have been experiencing discomfort in my left knee and top right thigh.
the only way I can describe the sensation in my knee, is like a mild electric shock (not too dissimilar to when you knock your funny bone in your elbow, though not as intense) if pressure is placed on it. the sensation fades after a few seconds of self massage, but then returns if I touch my knee later.
the feeling in my thigh, and at the top of my right leg, is just one of general aching.
are these sensations attributed to methotrexate, or could there be some other underlying issue? should I mention this to my consultant the next time I see him.
also, as an additional enquiry, should I be worried about swine/seasonal flu whilst on methotrexate?
I have already discussed this with my consultant, and he said I should be careful who and what I come into contact with. he also advised me that I should continue the course of treatment.
I would appreciate any advice given as to the extent of the increased risk I am at with regards to flu, both swine and seasonal.
thanks.
Luca.