I keep getting a recurring water infection that will not go away unless I take antibiotics. These have only really started since I got RA, I keep wondering if it is because I am on MTX and thefore my immune system is suppressed or is there another reason. Does anyone else have this problem.

Regards

Val

Hi Val

I have been on methotrexate for many years and didn't start with urine infections until January of this year. Since then I have had four which have had to be treated with antibiotics. Mtx can cause the neutrophil count to drop. Neutrophils are the guys that go about gobbling up the 'bad b*****s' that make us ill. Consequently no neutrophils = no immune system = lots of infections.

Do you know what your neutrophil count is at present? If it's below 2 you need to see your GP who may need to stop the mtx until the count increases. Either way it does sound very much as though Mtx is playing a part and a visit to the medics sounds imminent.

Pesky stuff

Lyn x

Hi Val

Yes, it should be part of the full blood count. But, don't you keep your own results whilst on Methotrexate? I have a patient held drug monitoring book in which are recorded all my blood test results, DAS, blood pressure and drug treatments. I keep this myself and take it with me wherever I go! It's the story of 'my life'!!!

Sometimes GPs regard things as normal when actually they aren't for someone on Mtx. I do think your recurring problem requires investigation as the Mtx could be the cause. Good luck

Lyn x

Hi Sylvia

That's a bit rotten developing bronchitis. Not sure what might have brought that on although I suppose it could have been the smoking?? I suppose too that if the only way to control the bronchitis is by using the inhaler then you might be stuck with it for now at least, unfortunately.

Swimming will help to keep joints mobile (it's also good lung exercise!). As it is not weight-bearing it doesn't put undue stress on the joints and is regarded as one of the best forms of exercise for those with RA. I'm not sure I would go as far as to say that it actually helps the joints in terms of disease but certainly it will strengthen the surrounding soft tissue which will in turn support the joint.

DAS is Disease Activity Score. Here's the NRAS link that will explain it in detail. There's also a booklet you can download and a video. My DAS is checked by the rheumatology department every 6 months.

I think my blood pressure is really only checked because I have had problems with methotrexate. It's just a case of keeping on top of things. I don't think it's done as a matter of course. Sorry if I confused things! I sometimes get the feeling that doctors and nurses aren't always very aware of RA and its complications. Many GP practices might have only a few patients with RA so possibly don't get to see it very often and is quite a learning curve when they do!

Hope this helps Sylvia. Take care,

Lyn x