Hello, angel, I was about to ask a similar question. I'm going to put mine in another post, though, so I don't hijack yours. I have read that being on MTX suppresses our immune system, so it's easier for us to catch illnesses.

Hi Gabriel and Lizzy, check out the post on the board, "Tips for trying to stay well on Orencia". Virtually the same question and it already has a few answers.

Thank you for the information. Will check it out.

We know immune system is lower on these meds.
Enbrel helped me also. Although I had infections every so many months while taking it. Mostly sinus & respiratory .,oddly enough few UTIs.
Rarely ever sick before now I feel like it's open season.
Really the only thing you can do is use preventative measures such as limiting exposure when all these viruses are floating around.
We know to keep hands clean, enviroment & so on....
Honestly I've been sick every year between Dec-Jan after hitting the stores. Figured that out this year after being sick for weeks.,
Had went to multiple stores trying to stock up for my uncle & family. Thought back & every year I've been hit with a long lasting illness it's followed a shopping binge. Causing me to be a little paranoid of shopping.,
Of course if your really concerned there are the masks.
Haven't went that far unless in hospital setting.
Dr recommends supplements, including Zinc., May help some.
It's no fun that's for sure. All you can do is your best to stay healthy.
Good luck,
Sammy

The nurse told me to get the masks when I talked to her yesterday because I am constantly sick. She suggested I wear them when in public and it is sick season. I pick up every little bug going around it seems. I am trying to figure out how to handle it though. I have an office job and have kept my illness very quiet. Putting on the mask will really start the gossip and questions. Not sure I am ready to handle that. Small town living does have it drawbacks. I am really tired of being sick though so guess I will have to bite the bullet on this one.

Can't blame you there. I'd be the same way. Less known the better.
Worst comes to worst we could put our heads together to come up with a good excuse for the mask without exposing your private life.
Sorry such awful brain fog can't think straight or I'd attempt to come up with something.
Well you can only do your best while at work.
For now I'm limiting time spent in stores. Trust me I have so many things piling up that involve shopping but sick of being sick.
Are you on supplements? I do believe it's worth trying.
Certain ones I notice a difference if I don't take them.
Compound pharmacists can be very helpful with suggestions. Not sure if you have one near but mine has been very helpful. Also find some of his products superior by far.
Just a suggestion but we have a germacidal unit in our home. It's not to expensive & super easy to install. It's really helped the entire family & saved my sinus & such.
Now some research suggest a good unit can help with preventing pathogens that cause illness.
Use good essential oils also. Won't get into that but these are things I believe have helped but there are always those times no matter what we do the virus or infection wins. Thinking it just Comes down to ones Immune system at that time.
Really feel for you. Another challange RA brings to life.
Here's to staying healthy.
Sammy

Sammyo1 - what is a germacidal unit? I have an air filter in the house that we use but am sure it is different than what you are talking about. Would love any info you can give me.

I do take vitamins and supplements. I not only have the RA affecting my immune system but I was diagnosed with Lupus at the same time so double whammy for me.

What are essential oils?

Appreciate the info.

Dana

i used to think essential oils was a "snake oil" thing. i was wrong. don't know which are good for immune system (sammy'll be back) but i use cypress oil on stiff and/or irritated joints and it helps (kinda smell a little swampy for a while) and frankincense (think Biblical, three wise men) to rub one drop just under the very base of my skull and dog-gone-it the stuff actually takes away/levels the anxiety within 3-4 minutes. amazing. could be power of suggestion but don't care because it seems to work.

only been on mtx for one month....no extra colds/infections yet...am in advertising sales constantly going into retail stores, etc. have always used a tremendous amount of hand sanitizer and for years have taken shaklee vitamins including the immunity tabs separate from the multi-vitamins.

thanks for bring this up, curious myself going forward.

Oddly enough, I have not had any more respiratory viruses or stomach bugs (knock on wood) while being on Enbrel and Methotrexate. I'm a teacher and around all sorts of germs every day. I also have 3 young kiddos that bring home 'God' knows what. I do take all the well known preventative measures. I also drink a lot of licorice tea and emer-gen C. Fish oil, and vitamin D and plenty of water are also part of my daily regimen. I wish I could say I get plenty of rest, but that's not in the cards for me!
I hope you can find some small, easy, things to keep you well.
Juls