exactly what you want. Consider the case of autoimmune disorders, for example. In some cases, a person’s immune system will attack itself. It may overreact to pathogens. It may go into overdrive when it simply doesn’t need to.
It’s like bringing a bomb to a knife fight. Yes, that bomb might take out the others, but you could also blow yourself up in the process!
Ideally, what people want is an efficient immune system. One that responds to all sorts of invaders proportionately. One that remembers old invaders and knows exactly how to target them. Unfortunately, some common medications can make these processes very difficult. In fact, certain medications make you more likely to not just get a bacterial or viral infection, but a fungal infection.
Fungal Infections and Weakened Immune Systems
One way to determine if you have a weakened immune system is by looking at your infection rate and type. It is well known that fungal infections increase in people who are immunosuppressed. This happens because the immune system can no longer fight off these indoor and outdoor fungi.
What might normally be harmless or cause a minor rash can become something very severe. Some fungal infections affect your skin, while others get underneath. The worst fungal infections can get into your blood and organs and are known as deep fungal infections.
The symptoms of such infections range from superficial itchiness and discoloration to fevers, headaches, shortness of breath, muscle aches, joint pain, and beyond.
Two classes of medications, in particular, can make you more vulnerable to these fungal infections.
Corticosteroids and TNF
Two commonly prescribed medications that weaken your immune system and lead to fungal infections are corticosteroids and TNF (tumor necrosis factor) inhibitors. You’ve probably heard of corticosteroids, as they are frequently used to treat everything from allergies to asthma, arthritis, and inflammatory diseases.
TNF inhibitors, meanwhile, are prescribed specifically for autoimmune disorders. These conditions include everything from rheumatoid arthritis to psoriasis. TNF inhibitors may increase the likelihood of severe fungal infections, especially medications such as Enbrel, Humira, and Remicade.
Similarly, corticosteroids can increase the risk of severe fungal infections. Categorized as either inhaled or oral, these medications include Prednisone, Cortisone, Advair, Symbicort, and others.
If you’re struggling with immunosuppression and believe your medicine is to blame, be sure to tell your doctor. In many cases, you can make lifestyle changes to boost your immune system. One way to deal with potential fungal infections is by limiting your exposure. Make sure to keep your indoor spaces clean and reduce time spent in dusty and dirty areas, like construction sites or places where waste accumulates.
You should also be sure to wear proper clothing when doing work out in nature. With a proactive approach to healthy living habits, you may be able to continue taking your meds while keeping your immune system in check!