steroid use

[vavachi]

I am using advair 250/50 for more than two years. Recently I am getting bruises on my legs and hands. they are always near my joints only. My PCP did a platelent count test and it was normal. Could these bruises be due to my steroid use? Am I in the higher dose steroid category. I am worried these could be the systemic effects of the drug. In that case would I be immunocompromised ? How could I know that my immunity is not impaired? I never had chicken pox in my life. should I get myself vaccinated? how much safe is the vaccine?

thanks

[National Jewish]

The bruises could be due to the Advair

[Concerned lady]

The LUNG LINE nurses will answer all your good questions. Meanwhile, I urge you to NOT get any vaccinations, while you are taking steroids. I believe it's not safe to be exposed to any infections, while taking steroids.

[Jane1]

I have been taking inhaled steriods for 12 years - 250mg 4 puffs a day - also I have had doses of prendislone over this period only short courses - I bruise easily too - I have gotten the flu Vac for 7 years - In the last 4 years I have been diagnosed with perncious anemia and more recently pulmonary sarc - I didn't know there may be a connection to vaccines and steriod use - have I compromised myself without knowing this - both disorders are linked to autoimmune disorders.  I was initially given steriods as a preventative treatment for asthma - asthma was much better before all this treatment - I am begging to wonder if the drug usage has compromised my health even more.  

Jane