Millions of people across the UK live with the pain and inflammation of arthritis, a condition with no outright cure but a range of treatments to manage symptoms. For those diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a common first-line medication prescribed by the NHS is Methotrexate. While effective for many, it carries specific side effects that require vigilant monitoring and, in some cases, immediate medical attention.
Understanding Arthritis and the Role of Methotrexate
Arthritis, which causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, primarily manifests in two forms in the UK. Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent type, often develops in people over 45 and involves the wearing down of joint cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where Methotrexate is frequently the initial disease-modifying drug prescribed to slow disease progression and manage symptoms.
The NHS notes that Methotrexate can affect blood cells and liver function, making regular blood tests an essential part of treatment. Additional monitoring may be required as the drug can, on occasion, impact the lungs. Patients are also warned that their skin can become highly sensitive to sunlight, leading to severe sunburn-like reactions. To mitigate this, avoiding intense sun and using a high-factor sunscreen of SPF 30 or above is strongly advised.
Recognising Side Effects: From Common to Critical
While many tolerate the treatment well, a range of side effects can occur. The NHS instructs patients to contact their doctor or call NHS 111 without delay if they experience several specific symptoms. These include persistent feelings of sickness, a noticeable loss of appetite, mouth sores, diarrhoea, headaches, or unexpected hair loss.
Although serious reactions are rare, affecting fewer than 1 in 10,000 people, it is vital to recognise the signs of a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. In these critical instances, the NHS guidance is clear: call 999 immediately.
When to Dial 999 for a Severe Allergic Reaction
The emergency signs that require a 999 call include sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, throat, or tongue; difficulty breathing or very fast breathing; a sensation of a tight throat or trouble swallowing; and skin, lips, or tongue turning blue, grey, or pale. A sudden onset of severe confusion, drowsiness, or dizziness is also a major red flag.
Other critical signs are if someone faints and cannot be woken, or if a child becomes limp, floppy, or unresponsive. An accompanying rash that is swollen, raised, itchy, blistered, or peeling can further indicate this serious reaction, which needs urgent hospital treatment.
By understanding these guidelines, patients using Methotrexate can better manage their treatment, staying alert to their body's signals and knowing precisely when and how to seek urgent medical support from the NHS.
