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Unfortunately people who have Lupus have complications with major body systems. Lupus directly affects the immune system an suppresses the body’s ability to fight against infections but the medications that Lupus patients take can suppress the immune system even more making patients more susceptible to infections. Cortisone-like medications suppress normal and abnormal immune system functions. Some infections can become very serious and require hospitalization. There are some infections that generally do not require hospitalization:
*The respiratory tract
*The Urinary tract
Typical infections tend to last longer in those with Lupus than with individuals who don’t have Lupus. Because these infections last longer in Lupus patients, it may become necessary to have prolonged infection treatment as well a hospital stay for observation. There is an increased risk for getting certain infections such as:
* Salmonella (a bacteria)
* Herpes zoster (a virus)
* Candida (yeast)
People with Lupus should seek medical immediately when you experience a fever because it could be a sign of infection, drug reaction or the Lupus becoming active again. The signs and symptoms are very similar. It can become even more critical because infections can bring on a Lupus flare. When it comes to treating infections in Lupus patients it is generally the same as everyone else but sulfa antibiotics should be avoided when possible because most Lupus Patients are allergic. Furthermore the create more problems:
* Increase photosensitivity
* Increase skin rashes
* Lower white blood cell counts.
The best thing to do when trying to avoid infections is to avoid others who have contagious illnesses and wash your hands. There are options such as getting vaccines to prevent illnesses. Discuss with your doctor what is best for you when it comes to vaccines because the live viruses in vaccines can possibly cause a Lupus flare such as a flu vaccine. Generally, vaccines with dead viruses should not pose a problem for Lupus patients. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to fight and prevent infections. For more information please visit www.womenshealth.gov and www.lupus.org.
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