Saturday, January 5, 2008

5/22/07 Up-date 2

On Monday we went to Stanford for our regular visit and found out that his levels are not down as much as the Dr would have liked. They are concerned with him being on such a high level of Prednisone that his enzymes should be lower. So that means he has to be another medicine called Methotrexate. This medicine is a Chemotherapy medicine that is also used with Arthritis. It helps with the, you know I'm not really sure what it helps with. Ok I went to a medical site and got something to paste on here.
USES: Methotrexate is used to treat certain types of cancer or to control severe psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis. This medication works by interfering with cell growth and by suppressing the immune system. Early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with more aggressive therapy such as methotrexate helps to reduce further joint damage and to preserve joint function.

SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warning section. Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness or dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: mouth sores, diarrhea, fever, fatigue, persistent sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, black stools, skin rash, enlarged glands/lymph nodes, dark urine, bone pain, unusual pain and discoloration of the skin. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes/skin, change in the amount of urine, chest pain, dry cough, trouble breathing, calf pain/swelling, vision changes, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, mental/mood changes, seizures. Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Ok does that help?
We start this on Friday and it is once a week treatment. He also has to take Folic acid to help him with Methotrexate.
We were shocked with the news of the blood work not being better because he really looks good and is getting more energy. His cheeks are getting puffy and is so cute with them. I tried taking a picture of him and he wont let me.
They said his rash is going to have to have some treatment also since that is not better too. They dont want him to have discoloration on his skin from this so we might have to treat that sepperatly.

Just wanted to update you

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Dermatomyositis


**DER MA TOE MY O SIGH TIS**

This is my way of sounding out his condition. It took me forever to try and say it and this is how I break it down.