I feel a bit silly asking this, but I'm starting a cold and have a sore throat. I vaguely remember the nurse warning me, when I was first diagnosed, to be on my guard for a sore throat - so should I contact the helplne? I'm pretty sure it's just a normal cold but with the mtx I'm a bit concerned. Have you any advice for me please?

Sylvia xx

Yes we do have to be careful with a sore throat-you'll probably be advised to stop the mtx and you may need antibiotics. But I'm not a doctor so do ring the helpline.

I think you should get advice from the nurse if you've not already done so. I know our nurse help line at Torbay Hospital is brilliant and you should be able to get through easily on weekdays between 2 and 4 pm. I personally have found that despite getting floored for weeks by colds and respiratory tract infections before RA, since getting RA I have fought off virus symptoms within 12 to 24 hours that initially seemed severe. It's as if my immune system is on high alert. I know other people with RA who are the same as me. However others seem to be unable to fight these bugs easily....so to be on the safe side, seek advice. Naomi, X

Hi glad to hear you are fighting off the bugs. I'm like Naomi, seem to fight off the bugs better since having R.A.
I've got a bit of a cold at the mo. too but not bad. I remember being told when I was first diagnosed to go to the doc. if I got a cold, and it made me over anxious about being ill.
Now I just take it in my stride more, If I suspect that I may have an infection I just go to my G.P. who will prescribe antibiotics and tell me if I need to stop mtx for a while.
I now have monthly infusions of abatercept and am always asked about my health beforehand. The nurse, who is lovely, always takes your temperature before giving it so it is obviously very imp. to keep a close check on our health without getting too worried about it. It is all very confusing at first, hope the cough clears up soon, if not get it checked!!
Zena xx