My daughter started on MTX and Folic acid 3 weeks ago. She had her first full dose on Saturday

evening.  I'm happy to report she hasn't experienced any side effects.

However, today is the second tiime she has mentioned that she feels her heart beating fast while

playing.   Has anyone ever experenced this?  Hope everyone has a painfree day.

Thanks

Nancy+Dgter age 6 poly 4/09

I haven't heard nor do I remember reading about that being a side effect.  Alex's only side effect is being extremely sleepy for up to 48 hours after his shot (given Saturday night.)   But you are giving the MTX orally, right?  We do the injections.

Can you call the rheumy's nurse?  I've found our nurse can answer most questions or get me the answers I need.

Good luck! 

Karen and Alex, 6, poly (04/09)

Probably nothing to worry about, but I did want to mention that my 2.5 year old daughter (poly/Dec'08) also sees a cardiologist after her rheumy heard a murmur.  The murmur is benign and everything is absolutely fine, but she does have a tiny bit of fluid around her heart sac.  I know, I know, it sounds awful and scary, but it's not in any way dangerous or interfering with the functioning of her heart.  In fact, it is not unheard of for kids with JRA to have some fluid around the sac (not pericarditis associated with systemic JRA, just some fluid).  The questions that the cardiologist always asks is if she's out of breath after physical activity, or really, really lethargic (like having the flu, but without being sick).  Or if there's shortness of breath...Just thought I'd mention it.  I might run it by my nurse as suggested above...more for peace of mind than anything.  

But what's probably really going on is your dear daughter is feeling so much better now that she's on the MTX that she's running around trying to make up for a bit of lost time on the playground!!!???   Hang in there, and please don't let what I say freak you out either.  I always convince myself that Brianna has these crazy rare things going on with her after surfing the web for too long...when I confess to the rheumy she kind of rolls her eyes and gently sets me straight (until the next visit).  What are we mothers to do??

Since our last posting we have spoken to our Rheumy and she stated what some of you said. MTx doesn't cause palpitaion or increased hear rate.  We went to the pediatrician so athey could take a listen and examine her.The Pedi said it would definitely be justified in getting a cardio eval. We saw the Cardiologist and all tests were negative(ekg and echo). He said her heart is strong and perfect. He said he would be surprised if it did make her heart beat stronger.

My gut was telling me everything would be fine, but there's nothing like peace of mind. Thanks to everyone. Hope everyone's day has been pain free.

Nancy+Dgter  age 6 poly 4/09 on MTX and Folic Acid