Steroid update

[barbieg]

I had my depo steroid jab yesterday by a Rheumatoid nurse who was fantastic. She gave me a very thorough examination and really listened to me. Never had that before. She then insisted I had more blood tests and a chest X-ray that day. I thought you only had to have a chest X-ray if you were going to have a biologic drug? Not sure if I’ve spelt that right? She suggested I will have to start on Methotrexate when I see my consultant next month.

[Hidden]

I had a chest xray before starting methotrexate.

Great you had a good nurse. There are some good people out there.

[barbieg in reply to Hidden]

Thank you. This appointment was so different, I’ve always felt rushed before 10mins if your lucky. This time it was more like 25mins.

[helixhelix]

Chest x-rays are pretty standard at diagnosis. They need to be sure that lungs are ok before starting MTX, and it also gives a baseline for the future as the disease can affect your lungs.

[barbieg in reply to helixhelix]

I hadn’t realised that. I had months off school when I was a child with whooping cough and have always suffered with chest problems since. Will this effect medication chose then?

[helixhelix in reply to barbieg]

Probably not, just mean that they keep a closer eye on you. I've had TB, several bouts of pneumonia and loads of bronchitis but was fine on MTX. Mention it to the doctors.

[AgedCrone]

I find the rheumatology nurses these days really well informed & they are far more practical than the average Consultant Rheumatologist.

Even though it has been around for many years, Methotrexare is the Gold Standard Dmard for RA,& many thousand with the disease live very well taking it....so if you are prescribed it have an open mind, & try to remember those who do not tolerate it are in the minority.

Good Luck with your appointment next month.

[Jackie1947]

No it's correct not just biologics but methotrexate too. She's saving you time as Consultant will have the results. You have a great Nurse there.

[barbieg in reply to Jackie1947]

Yes I realise that now. She was excellent . It would be wonderful if I saw her in future.

[nomoreheels]

Wish I had your nurse! You've got a good one there.

She'll have arranged the bloods to check your liver, blood cells etc, the chest x-ray to ensure your lungs are ok & as a baseline prior to starting MTX. It can in rarer cases affect the lungs so if you have any chest problems whilever you're on MTX they'd take an x-ray & compare it to the one you've just had. It's all prep for your Rheumy appointment & starting your MTX.

I hope you do well on it, it's been my best bud for 9 years. 😉