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Low immunity, infection and treatment

Posted , 7 users are following.

Elizamc
Elizamc

I was diagnosed with PMR in October 2017 and started on prednisone. From February-December 2018 I had seven asthma flares and chest infections, flu, two bouts of shingles, three DVT's. I'd been pushing hard for a pulmonary referral because of constant breathlessness and wheezing inspite of being on steroids and what I'm told is massive doses of inhaled steroids.

I was eventually seen in Outpatients and a number of tests started. A few things have shown up one of which is low immunity - the reason for all the infections.

Next week I will see the Consultant again to discuss the results if a chest CT and treatment options for the repeated infections. Dr is suggesting either long term antibiotics, or immuno-therapy.

Is anyone having treatment for low immunity? If so what? I'm thinking that immuno-therapy is probably nit the best treatment for someone with PMR. Any thoughts? Thank you.

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • EileenH
    EileenH Elizamc

    Posted

    To be honest it isn't something I've come across on any of the forums in over 10 years. Steroids themselves can cause breathlessness as a side effect - are your doctors aware of that? And are they sure this is "just" PMR?

    By immunotherapy do they mean a biologic for the PMR or do they mean immunoglobulin replacement therapy? If it is the latter I'm surprised that is being suggested so quickly - but I don't know a lot about it except it is very expensive as there aren't massive supplies of the substances used and it is usually reserved for very specific situations.

    • Elizamc
      Elizamc EileenH

      Posted

      Thank you for replying Eileen. Yes both my GP and Consultant are aware that Pred can cause breathlessness. One of the treatments being considered is immunoglobulin therapy for low immunity. The Doctors are concerned that its leaving me with poor resistance to chest infections which triggers my asthma. Its a loop that was almost impossible to get out of for nine months last year. The Consultant is giving me a 'good' check over and today I've had the results of my chest CT which were normal. Really pleased about that.

      My thoughts about immuglobulin therapy is that if it boosts immunity its probably not good for PMR?

    • EileenH
      EileenH Elizamc

      Posted

      I think it is a very specific boosting of the immune system so maybe doesn't cause a problem. And from what I can see it would depend on which Ig - but I really am looking forward to hearing the continuation...

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