How can you manage widespread psoriatic arthritis pain, fatigue, and nerve symptoms while starting methotrexate?
It sounds like you're dealing with a lot right now. The exhaustion and pain you're experiencing are common with active PsA, and the burning, pins and needles, and numbness in your hands and feet could be Show Full Answer
How can you manage widespread psoriatic arthritis pain, fatigue, and nerve symptoms while starting methotrexate?
It sounds like you're dealing with a lot right now. The exhaustion and pain you're experiencing are common with active PsA, and the burning, pins and needles, and numbness in your hands and feet could be peripheral neuropathy, which some people with PsA develop.
Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that works to reduce inflammation in both your joints and skin. The folic acid your doctor prescribed helps minimize side effects. You'll need regular monitoring of your liver, kidney, and lung function while taking it.
Most people experience mild side effects that improve over time. Common ones include:
* Nausea or upset stomach
* Diarrhea
* Mouth ulcers
* Hair loss
* Increased sun sensitivity
Since leflunomide caused nausea, talk to your doctor if methotrexate does too. Taking it as an injection rather than orally can sometimes reduce stomach issues. The fatigue you're experiencing could be from the PsA inflammation itself, anemia (which is common with chronic inflammation), or medication side effects. It's worth discussing with your doctor if the exhaustion continues.
For the nerve symptoms, peripheral neuropathy can cause stabbing or burning sensations, numbness, and make you feel clumsier. These symptoms can make daily tasks harder and affect sleep quality.
Give the methotrexate time to work - it can take several weeks to months to see improvement. Stay in close contact with your rheumatologist about how you're feeling, especially in the first few weeks. If side effects become intolerable or the medication isn't helping after a reasonable trial period, there are other treatment options available.
A MyPsoriasisTeam member shared similar experiences: "I literally have felt like I was having a heart attack and my bones hurt on the inside for a long time now." You're not alone in this struggle.
February 12
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