Questions about Methotrexate, MRI scans and NeuroBehcets

[Wellington]

Hi,

Went to see my consultant today and have been taken off Azathioprine and been put on Methotrexate (6 x 2.5mg) as my symptoms of Behcets have gone unbearable. So my first question is how do any of you find Methotrexate and what, if any side effects do you have with it? Was also given folic acid to help with the side effects.

My second questions concerns MRI scans. I have to have an emergency one as soon as possible on my brain and spine because I have lost use of my right leg and my right arm is feeling heavier, aswell as having terrible headaches. I would like to know what happens when you have one. I only know it takes half an hour and am worried because I get claustrophobic. Could anyone tell me if you can be sedated?

My consultant is talking about NeuroBehcets. What are the symptoms of this? Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks, Jo.

[rosshi]

hi Wellington, I cannot tell you anything about Methotrexate that’s one I've not tried. or at least I cannot recall taking it.

I presume you have been put on steroids, when I mad neuro-flares my main course of treatment would be high doses of prednisolone; the steroid reduces inflammation and at the very least buys you more time.

MRI; when you have a scan try to stay relaxed, they will most likely play music through a headset, the machine will make a variety of sounds which can be quite loud; this is why you get to wear the headset. You will lie on a a platform/table, you usually have a foam wedge placed under your raised knees; with your feet flat on the platform, Your head wiill be in a support; designed to help prevent movement, as throughout the scan you must remain as still as possible. You will wear a hospital gown and you mustn't wear any metal and tell the technician of any implants you may have even if they are not metal.

If you tell the technician about feeling claustrophobic I'm sure they will take time with you and explain everything about the procedure, I have had at least 5 MRIs over the years and all of the technicians I have had have been very informative; explaining everything that will happen and putting you at ease. You will also be given a panic button to hold, so if you are feeling claustrophobic when you are in the machine or for any other reason you can press it; this notifies the technician and the platform will glide out of the scanner.

But as I said try to remain relaxed, close your eyes and try to daydream or think about what you are planning for tea later on, think about that nice hot bath you are going to have, just try to think of other stuff and before you know it all will be done.

Highlight and copy this link and paste it into your browsers URL (address bar)

youtube.com/watch?v=If_jAgF...(Not working as expected?)

You can see more videos on Youtube; just search for: mri scan procedure

the video will probably inform you better than I can.

I wish you all the best and even though its hard to; as I'm only to well aware, try not to worry; remember worrying only adds to problems, has no positives; so it therefore should not even be contemplated

kind regards,

Paul

[rosshi in reply to rosshi]

oops... I didn’t realise the link would embed the video; I hope this is helpful for you?

Culata

A?T?B

Paul

[Wellington in reply to rosshi]

Hi Paul,

Thanks so much for replying and for all the brilliant advice.

I have been on high doses of steroids over the past year but never hardly slept whilst on them and was ravenously hungry ALL THE TIME!! My doctor wants to see what the scan says before being prescribed them again so soon after the last lot.

I didn't mention earlier but my lovely mum died suddenly two weeks ago which has devastated me. She was only 65 and we were incredibly close. This is why things are so extra hard at the moment. As you can understand I am totally the opposite of relaxed and have only her in my thoughts at the moment so will find it hard to think about other things at the time of the scan.

I will check out the Youtube videos and really appreciate you answering my question.

Wishing you all the best too,

take care,

Jo

[rosshi in reply to Wellington]

sorry I've not replied till now, the forum does not tell me if someone has added to the conversation and I never think to go back and take a look;

that aside,

I just wanted to send you our sympathies at your lost we hope things get better over time, you take good care and best of luck

Culata

A?T?B

Paul + my wife Anna

[Wellington in reply to rosshi]

Many thanks Paul (and to Anna also) it means a lot and please don't apologise.

Life is still pretty shit to be honest but taking each day as it comes.

Hoping you are okay and that you aren't too unwell at the moment. Take care of yourself too.

All the best,

Jo.

[kimber1234]

Just had my MRI first time, I got scared in there. But had head phones on listening to music. yep, no worrying true that.