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SED rate always too high

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peg82485
peg82485

I'm 68 have RA + osteoarthritis for years my SED rate was elevated about 5 years ago of 83  now taking methotrexate for about 2 years it's at 67 I want to know what it should be after this long  and why I have my blood checked every 2 months

0 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • mrsmop
    mrsmop peg82485

    Posted

      

    https://patient.info/doctor/acute-phase-proteins-crp-esr-and-viscosity

    Have you read this page?  

    Your ESR is one reason why you have your bloods checked every 2 months, while you are on MTX.  

    I copied the following Q&A from a site I found

    Q: I have been taking 15 mg of methotrexate weekly for the past seven years. I have had blood work done at least every other month during that time; however, my doctor wants me to have blood tests every month. Since none of my past blood tests have shown any problems, I am wondering why I need to have these tests so often. Wouldn't every few months suffice?

    A: No, I wouldn't recommend having those tests any less frequently than your doctor recommends. In general, patients taking methotrexate should have the tests monthly. Just because you haven't had any problems for the past seven years doesn't mean you can't develop problems at any time in the future.

    Frequent blood tests may detect subtle abnormalities that could alert your doctor to modify your methotrexate dose before a serious problem occurs. If you still have concerns about the frequency of your lab tests, I would recommend bringing up the subject with your doctor at your next appointment. In the meantime, I know it's a hassle to have the tests monthly, but in doing so, you may save yourself serious problems down the road.

  • mrsmop
    mrsmop peg82485

    Posted

    I was on MTX for 18 months and had my bloods done every month after the first few months.

    Talk to your Consultant or the Specialist Nurse.

     

  • peg82485
    peg82485

    Posted

    Thanks I guess I'm just concerned after almost 2 years why my SED rate won't go down AND I'M GETTING BLOODWORK EVERY THREE MONTHS NOW
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