How do Daily Oral Steroids Users defend against increased infection risks?

[Matman]

Doctors often prescribe antibiotics alongside short courses of Oral Steroids because of the increased risk of infection caused by taking steroids.

What do folk who take Oral Steroids 'daily' on a long-term basis do about the increased infection risk - I guess they can't constantly be taking antibiotics everyday too?

Maybe the increased infection risk that steroid use creates varies with the Daily Dosage Strength?

Thanks in advance for any insights / thoughts

[Jenzzie18]

I am on long term steroids. I haven't been given anything specific to protect against infections. I have a stomach protection tablet and calcium. Have been told to take vitamin d too. I'm not sure there is much else that they can give. I may be wrong. X

[EmmaF91 Community Ambassador in reply to Jenzzie18]

Same. Technically not an official daily steroid taker but I end up on high doses for months at a time and am on more than I am off. Stomach protector, vit d and orange juice and cheese (doc and I discussed adcal was on for a time but wanted to cut down on tablets). If I come into contact with sick people I wash and anti-bac hands to play on the safe side. Also have emergency antibiotics at home if I feel I need them...

[shirl13]

I have been on oral steroids daily since 1991 I mainly try to avoid people - I know this may sound extreme but only go out Tesco, doctors and hospital. Visitors know not to come if they have colds or anything but other than this I can't think of anything else to do

[angievere]

Vitamin supplements, tea tree or lavender oil in bath and rubbed on wrists. Antibacterial gel when out and about. Avoid people with colds if possible.

[emmasue]

My doctor suggested I take a daily multivitamin (which I take at night). In the morning, I take a calcium + vitamin D tablet as well as a high dose of vitamin C. I have two kids so it is difficult.