Question about Humira

[googlyeyes]

I just got my first shot of Humira for my suspected psoriatic arthritus yesterday (i realize this is in RA, but there's no other section), and I had a quesiton. For those of you that take it or have knowledge about it, I know that it lowers your white blood count. People in my house are sick quite a bit during the year, so other than screenings (which I obviously will be getting), how do I protect myself? Supplements? Immune-boosting foods? What are the chances of me actually getting a serious infection?

[TrudieC]

There is a big argument going on out there as to whether those with lowered immune systems should get the shots or not.  In many cases a family doctor will say yes and your rheumatologist will say no.  Go with your rheumatologist - let him decide for you.

Your body's immune system is in overdrive and it is attacking your body which is the cause of the arthritis.  Drugs like Humira lower the immune response to give you relief.  Never take anything that will  build your immune system unless your rheumatologist has approved it.  You don't want your immune system getting stronger and making the arthritis worse unless the doctor says so.  

The corticosteroids can mask an infection.  It is very important for you to watch for symptoms of being sick as they may be harder to identify due to the corticosteroids.

In the mean time just avoid sick people as much as possible, wash your hands, eat well, and sleep well.

[googlyeyes]

Yes, I actually am on other medications. That was something else I was worried about. I am currently on Advair 250, and that is a corticosteroid. I heard that increases your risk even more? And are there any suppliments I could possibly take for my immune system? I have an appointment with my rheumatologist this week, so I'll be asking him these questions but it's nice to know sooner than later. But something that kind of bothers me with my rheumatologist is that never did he say anything about the Advair I'm on. He also said nothing of getting my shots before starting. I felt like I could trust him, but it seems like he's doing an awful lot wrong?

[txsilver]

Hello, you are in the right forum.  We have posts on all forms of arthritis here and we are glad to have you join us.  
Humira and other medications used to treat autoimmune forms of arthritis do weaken your immune system.  Your doctor should have given you a flu shot and pneumonia shot before starting you on this medication.  Things you can do to reduce the chances of getting sick are fairly standard, wash your hands frequently, eat right, get plenty of sleep and try to reduce yor exposure.  Regarding serious infections, many people take this medication and do not contract serious infections but your susceptibility is increased because of the drug.  Be vigilant and do not write off unusual symptoms or new developments as being part of the condition or a side effect of the drugs.  Have things investigated by your doctor.  
Are you taking any other medications?