Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...
Hello, have a couple quick questions about some skin problems with mtx use. I do sometimes get small infections on my skin from time to time and have all my life and it's nothing new. But now since I've been on the dmards for a few months and it has grew into a great concern for me. They come up like an under the skin pimple. Eventually they will bust and ooze some but they get sore and swell up a little. Sometimes its a week or two clearing up. I get them in my hairline on the back of my head sometimes but have had them here and there in different spots over the years. I had some acne back when I was young and it's like it still represents it's self in this manner with the occasional single big pimple. Anyway I have had one arrive in one of the most private areas ever and it's worrying me. Sorry if this post is gross to anyone. I've seen staff infection pictures before and I couldn't imagine getting something like that down there. Have anyone here ever had a serious skin infection that got bad while on these meds? I'm sure it just a minor skin infection but the location and the fact that I'm on these meds had me concerned. I've kept everything clean and a fresh coat of neosporin there every since it was first noticed. Any input or experience with skin infections while on dmards would be appreciated. Remember this is sorta normal for me from time to time over the years only difference is now im on the meds. Thanks.
My mom suffered from boils and carbuncles (similar but larger than a boil) and she went on oral antibiotics for a long period of time, which somehow kept them away for several years. Maybe you can see a dermatologist and do the same.
It sounds like you are just a victim here and will keep getting them (armpit is normal spot too). My mom did a long term antibiotic and it really helped. One thing for sure, take vitamins to be sure you aren't missing out on any nutrition - otherwise, I'm sure the methotrexate is just lowering your immune system enough to allow these to gang up on you.
Some of the long term antibiotics have been considered mild dmards too - so it might be worth a look-see.
This is what helps: Murad anti-acne body wash, it is the blue product. Use it twice a day with natural sponge to exfoliate your skin. My dermatologist also gave me an Rx for some anti-acne lotion that I put on twice a day. Also, try a local Spa for treatments. My worst area is on my back, and I do get a back facial now and then. I know this all sounds like a major pain, and it is, the only thing worse is not taking the meds.
Lynne