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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I have MCTD and take methotrexate as well as Leucovorin and folic acid. I was DXed in 2021.

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Newburyport, MA

I’ve been losing hair, have dry eyes and dry mouth
My rheumatologist tested for several things once it was determined I have it and not Lupus as first suspected after a cardiologist was testing for a blood clotting disorder after having one in my leg many years ago, as well as bilateral pulmonary embos, post spinal surgery # 2. I do have that disorder
I can’t find much online about MCTD so follow this site thinking some help is here.
Are there any recommendations that would apply to me about… read more

February 5
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MyLupusTeam

What can help with hair loss while taking methotrexate for MCTD?

Hair loss can be tricky to pinpoint since it's a known side effect of methotrexate, but it can also be caused by MCTD itself or other factors. The challenge is figuring out what's causing it in your specific case.

To determine if methotrexate is the culprit Show Full Answer

What can help with hair loss while taking methotrexate for MCTD?

Hair loss can be tricky to pinpoint since it's a known side effect of methotrexate, but it can also be caused by MCTD itself or other factors. The challenge is figuring out what's causing it in your specific case.

To determine if methotrexate is the culprit, your rheumatologist might consider temporarily stopping the medication to see if your hair grows back. However, don't make this decision on your own—talk to your doctor first about whether adjusting your treatment plan is possible.

Your doctor can also perform specific tests to help identify the cause:
* A hair pull test (gently pulling a cluster of hair to see how many come out)
* A scalp biopsy (examining a small skin sample under a microscope)
* Blood tests to rule out other causes

Since you're already taking folic acid and leucovorin, you're doing something important—these supplements help counteract methotrexate's effects on folate, which can contribute to hair loss. Regarding your other symptoms—fatigue, weight gain, and increased joint pain—these can all be related to MCTD and the medications used to treat it. Joint inflammation, pain, and swelling are common MCTD symptoms, and methotrexate is specifically used to help reduce this inflammation.

A MyLupusTeam member shared: "I have been on methotrexate since 2014, and it has helped me a lot. The swelling around the joint areas has gone down."

If your symptoms are worsening despite treatment, it's worth discussing with your rheumatologist. They may need to adjust your medication dose or explore additional treatment options to better manage your MCTD symptoms.

February 5

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