Copaxone

[Needhelp16]

Hi all!  Its been awhile. I hope all is well with everyone.

Yesterday I started copaxone. I've had 2 injections. One each arm. Since then when I wash my hands I have this burning sensation when the water hits them.  Has anyone else experienced this?  Is it the copaxone or just a new symptom/flare with the ms?

Thanks in advance for the comments!

Laura

[Needhelp16]

So I talked to the SS nurse today.  She said nothing like this has been reported with copaxone.  Obviously she can't diagnose me but she thinks its a flare.

She told me to lay down and rest.  If I'm still having problems after I get up to call my doctor.  She also said any new symptom that you experience for more than 24 hrs needs to be reported to your doctor.  So hopefully I'll feel better after I get up.

The other thing is now this morning I'm having the burning sensation in my ankles and it goes up my shins.  **sighs**  Hopefully a good nap will make me feel better.  I'll keep y'all posted.

[twopack]

Hi Laura.  I haven't heard your complaint in relation to starting Copaxone but I have heard a few people here mention that they have had burning or stinging sensations when shower water strikes their skin.  Cooler water sometimes has helped.

It doesn't sound like this is a critical problem but you are right to ask about any changes you notice.  We are glad to share our experiences here but the advice to report to your MS nurse is solid.

It's always good to keep a journal at this point because there is so much to remember, so many new things happening, and so many potential causes for the "little" things you now notice.  A journal allows you to look back later and piece things together.  Hindsight is clearer for figuring out which pieces go with what puzzle.

Good for you in getting started with treatment to fight expanding levels of disability from MS.  We've had quite a few discussions about the injectables, especially Copaxone.  It sounds like things are going pretty well at the moment but sometimes skin problems kick in after a few weeks.  

For Laura and Michael both:
You can search for past discussions using the sidebar "Search this Community".  Here's a link to one example for Copaxone.

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Multiple-Sclerosis/Injection-site-reactions--can-you-tell-me-if-this-is-normal/show/1354717

Michael, you might want to warm the area before injecting rather than ice it.  Some people have had good results with that.  It has also been suggested to use witch hazel pads (or lotion on a cotton ball) to help ease sting or discomfort after injection.  I keep some in the 'frig.  I don't need it often anymore but it works well when I do.  I use the pad and cover it with a cold pack for a few minutes.

Good luck to both of you as you adjust to the new routine.
Mary

[jujuminx]

Hummm, I am on copaxone and have never had that side effect. Not sure Laura if related or not, but anything is possible.  So this is constant, I mean, now everytime you wash hands since injections you have this burning sensation?

I would mention to dr or call SS and ask about it. Sorry, can't offer you more.

Julie

[Yankeesfan4life]

I was taken off Betaseron and started my copaxone last week, the only issue I have with the injecrions is the pain, which last bout 20 minutes, I ice 10 minutes before shot and 15 minutes after, I hope you just need to get used to it and it isn't a flare up, all the best and prayers to you. Also, call one of the nurses and ask if you aren't real sure. also, I am new here, I just joined tonight, nice to see so many helpful people.

Michael