Cold and cough for three weeks

[Summerrain14]

Hi everyone, I have both Lupus and RA and started with a cold around three weeks ago. It’s not for leaving me. I’m on sulphasalzine. This cold has caused a little flare up on my Lupus and RA. Just wondering if I need to see my GP incase it has turned into an infection or if it is just part and parcel so to speak of the conditions that makes a cold last longer? Don’t want to waste anyone’s time.

[charisma]

Hi Summerrain

My RA nurse used to tell me to stop taking DMARD meds if a virus won’t go, or even as soon as one is obvious. Do you have a local Rheumatology Dept RA helpline? It would be best to get advice from there or your GP. Please don’t delay in seeking their help.

[Hidden in reply to charisma]

Same advice given to me best see your GP

[Summerrain14 in reply to charisma]

Hi, there is no RA helpline at the Rheumatology department I attend. I’m heading to the doctors on Monday. Thanks so much for your advice makes me feel better that I am not going to be wasting anyone’s time. 😊

[crashdoll]

I cannot recall if sulfasalazine suppresses the immune system but either way, your autoimmune disorders make you more vulnerable so it’s worth getting checked out by the GP. Better safe than sorry.

[Summerrain14 in reply to crashdoll]

Thanks, I’m heading to the doctor’s on Monday. Better safe than sorry as you say.

[Eiram50]

I would strongly advise going to see your gp.

I picked up a cold from my daughter three weeks ago and although I’ve been very lucky in so far as that’s the first thing I’ve picked up over years, it floored me.

A week in hospital on oxygen 24-7, 2 courses of IV antibiotics, steroids, nebulisers four times daily- it was a nightmare!

Go see your gp. Always better safe, than sorry x

[Summerrain14 in reply to Eiram50]

Oh goodness so sorry that you were so ill. I’m heading to my doctor’s on Monday. x