Chest Infections

[andyput]

Hi I was diagnosed with Emphysema 3yrs ago but up till 2017 never had any chest infections. I have been in hospital with one infection . Had 2 chest infections with antibiotics and steroids. Now I have Pleurisy. So that's 4 things in 18 months .Why all of a sudden am I getting them ?

[2greys]

Hi andyput, I am not a doctor so I can only go on experience and make a suggestion. There are a myriad amount of reasons for this to happen from, just plain bad luck or to a compromised immune system.

I have just had a bad year for exacerbations so far as well, two infections and a current one of just inflammation. Both infections as a result of coming into contact with people who were ill themselves and the current one of inflammation, probably caused by all the hot, dry, dusty weather we are having. Yet went through two years of having just one infection previously.

COPD patients are commonly low on vitamin D3 which can lower the immune system. It might be useful to examine your diet and make sure it is balanced, even if it means eating stuff you are not keen on. I take vitamins D3 & K2 as a supplement just to make sure, especially this year, with all the steroids I have been taking, as steroids can lower the immune system and drain calcium from the bones as well.

[andyput in reply to 2greys]

Thank you 2greys I will look at D3 & K2 although I do spend a lot of time in the sun for vitamin D. I could give it a try ,

[Bkin]

May pay you to request full blood count from your doctor to check for deficiencies, B vitamins, magnesium, potassium and include the vitamin D3 test.

Perhaps ask for a referral back to the specialist consultant if you are not already under one.

As 2greys says it could be any number of reasons, but persistent courses in ABs and steroids deplete the immune system whilst dealing with the inflammation and infection.

A course of Pro biotics is a good option if you have had to take ongoing antibiotics this year.

A good diet is also extremely important as it drinking plenty of water to help the body recover.

blf.org.uk/support-for-you/...

Wishing you a good recovery.

[andyput in reply to Bkin]

Hello I will ask me Doctor for a blood test to see if there are and deficiencies, I have had an Xray but know results yet. Thank you