AboutNigel Simmons Expertise I am happy to answer general questions on medicines and hospital care. If possible, please use approved / chemical names rather than brands which are not internationally recognised.
Like all health professionals I am bound by a duty of care which prevents me giving detailed information about medication or treatment of people other than the questioner.
I will endeavour to help wherever possible or point towards more appropriate advice. If however your question crosses too far into patient confidentiality, I hope you will understand why I cannot answer your question.
Consider.. would you want me to discuss your care with a friend or relative without your knowledge?
Experience Registered as a UK pharmacist in 1982 and have worked in a number of hospital and health management posts around the UK. Formerly Chief Pharmacist for a 440 bed general hospital in Cambridgeshire.
Past/Present clients Previously Sysop on CompuServe UK Professionals forum.
Question are Hydorxychloroquine, Lexapro and estrogen gel all compatible? do you believe fluctuating estrogen levels (after full hysterectomy) can contribute to rhuematory arthritis?
Answer Nancy
There is no specific interaction or caution that I am aware of between any of the medications and rheumatoid arthritis.
However, as you have had recent surgery the changes in hormone levels, your body's reaction to the trauma of surgery or even drugs used during anaesthesia may all contribute to a sudden exacerbation of arthritic pain or inflammation. My suspicision would be that as your body recovers from the surgery, there has been a natural inflammatory reaction in the wound area and this has similarly affected your joints.
If I am correct, I would expect the problems to resolve in the next week or two. In the meantime, I would suggest ensuring that your anti-inflammatory analgesia is used regularly, and if your doctor is in agreement a short-term change in dose may be beneficial.
If the problems do not subside, you should raise them with your doctor and they can carry out blood tests etc. to assess your immune response and treat problems as necessary.
