infection in ear

[Willow7733]

Hi! I have a question. I keep getting a recurring Staphylococcus aureus infection in my middle ear. I was wondering, since it is recurring often, if it has anything to do with lupus - as I know it can affect your skin. It gets scaly and inflamed. I don’t know why it keep happening g in my left ear. Since Covid, I am very careful not to touch my face, and definitely don’t touch my ears…so weird.

[OldTed60]

hi. I don’t have Lupus but have systemic sclerosis and Sjogren’s. I have same in my sinus currently and it’s proving hard to treat. I think those of us with weakened immune systems, for whatever reason, are more prone to bacterial infections which are resistant. Each time I’ve had an infection recently it’s followed a spell of time off immunesuppression so opposite of what I’d expect. I don’t think it’s related to a specific autoimmune although I tend to blame Sjogren’s for dry ears and nostrils - which seems to make me more prone to staph getting in as more cuts and fissures and ulcers when it’s extra active. I don’t tolerate many antibiotics now unfortunately so am presently trying out Erythromycin for my sinus infection.

[RAD120]

Hi Willow, yes I do think it is connected to Lupus. My GP. Prescribed steroid ear drops which clears it up very quickly. It's not something I use very often but it really helps.

[Waxed]

Hi Willow, I have lupus and have the same problem with my right ear. My eardrum burst during one episode. I was advised to never get my ear wet and that has worked for me as I haven't had an infection for about 18 month. Hope this helps.