Lupus & Rheumatoid Arthritis Colds /flu

[Jhpc]

What can I take for a cold/flu. I’m on methotrexate, hydroxycholoroquine and pregabalin.

I have been for the last two days having mainly hot drinks with honey, lemon and ginger, also using menthol crystals however I’m having more headaches now what can I take,I’m new to these medications in the last month or so, so any advice is welcome.

[weathervane]

Steam 3 times aday and gargle with warm salted water. I also use sterimar saline nasal spray which helps The sinuses and doesn’t contain any chemicals. I hope you feel better soon ,rest up , keep warm and happy Christmas 🎄⛄️

[Jhpc in reply to weathervane]

I have been steaming with the menthol crystals but will try the nasal spray thanks. Wasn’t sure if I could use the normal cold/flu remedies.

[weathervane in reply to Jhpc]

I would check with your pharmacist, i cant take decongestants because of meds for palpitations. Its best to check , if you are too unwell then phone , my pharmacist is really helpful.

[Jhpc in reply to weathervane]

Yes I was thinking that earlier, thanks.

[PMRpro]

Please contact your doctor or specialist nurse - you should probably NOT take your next dose of methotrexate. Were you not told to avoid it if it until recovered?

[Jhpc in reply to PMRpro]

I took my last dose of methotrexate on Sunday came down with this on the Monday, I have only been diagnosed about 5 weeks ago so all this is new to me.

[PMRpro in reply to Jhpc]

Fair enough - but it won't have helped that close together. Do check before Sunday.

I know - you just feel in a limbo and have no idea what is to be expected and what isn't right. But this forum is a gem - you'll be well looked after

[Jhpc in reply to PMRpro]

Yes I am pleased I did only joined last week. Helpful information from you all.

Thanks

[Peterlupy in reply to Jhpc]

You are new to Methotrexate so it may need a dose adjustment as it can cause a variety of side effects, including headaches. I had headaches when I started MTX treatment 3 years ago. My consultant reduced the dose a little and the headaches ceased!

[Cas70]

Go onto Turmeric for health website. Natural spice so a little at a time. Manukau honey won’t hurt. Good luck

[Jhpc in reply to Cas70]

Thanks. Went to the doctors this morning as my eye started hurting, I only have

an eye infection, chest infection and my oxygen levels were quite low. No wonder I was feeling so sorry for myself.

I have used Tumeric in the past.

Thanks

[Sara_A]

You can take paracetamol for the headaches but nothing else really for a cold. Just rest and fluids really.

Most over the counter remedies are a waste of money anyway. Unless u are blocked up u can take decongest or something. But if it's just a cold that's caused by a virus then nothing will help it just takes time to pass sadly.

[Joy_1]

Hi

I am on MTX + HCQ

For colds I take:

Steam inhalation 3 times a day - put nothing in the water (nothing in water = recommendation by Pharmacist)

Lots and lots of rest

Keep hydrated

Ginger tea - made with hot water and a slice of fresh ginger

Turmeric - 1/4tsp ground turmeric in cup of hot full fat milk - twice a day - don't eat or drink anything for 30 mins afterwards so that turmeric can get to work - its a standard Indian and Chinese cure - been around for ever

[Jess_doyle]

I know I’m a bit late here lol, but I got really sick a few months bad sore throat and everything I decided to get this honey manuka honey it’s got really good reviews on helping infections mostly everything, took it for a few days and felt back to normal no bother. A small spoonful a day or add it to something should help with a lot of issues, it is expensive why say “small”

[Jhpc]

Yes I too like the Manuka honey which I did use. I did end up at the doctors as I was feeling much worse with a chest and eye infection. I’m all better now thank goodness. Thanks for your reply and wish you all a Happy Healthy New Year .