I was reading another post, and It made me want to post this message.
First of all, I was a molecular genetisist so I have seen a lot, especially in the lab. So I know full well the toll that the flew season in particular can take on any one of us.
Anyway, I am on 3 autoimmune suppressive drugs, Methotrexate, Plaqunil, and prednisone. I know I can't fight infection or bacteria so here is what I do when I have to go to the Dr. or facitily. When I go to my family Dr. or Hospital, or anywhere else that has sick people, the first thing I do is tell them that I am very ill, and can not be around anyone sick or wait with sick people. I also tell them that I have numerous AI's and my body can not take the germs. I usually get a good reaction. The ER takes my straight in, the Dr. lets me wait in my vehicle until a room opens up and then they call my cell, and everyone has to comply with MY wishes, or I leave. Which I have only had to leave a facility once.
I read all of the time how some people have to wait and wait, and get the run around. I would recommend that we all do this. My Dr.'s don't even want me to go to the grocery store without gloves and masks, so my husband does all of that to keep me healthy. And I have instructions, rightfully so, to not even be around friends that have sick children or that have been around sick children. None of us need our Immune Systems to be stimulated.
I just wanted to put my 2 cents in about this, because I am not putting my health at jeapordy because someone at a desk or on the phone does not want to think of a patients health first.
And if you are on methotrexate, tell them you are on Chemo, they will get you right on it.
Just a thought.
Hi Fairy :)
What you do makes a lot of sense.
I didn't know Plaquenil was an immuno-supressant though. I knew the other two were. I know Plaq is meant to be 'disease altering' but I've never quite worked out how it works. I've been on it for about 5 years now and I don't think I've caught anything for more years than that. My immune system does a magnificent jo in repelling invaders - its just a bit dim and doesn't know where to stop!
My family and friends fall ill around me and I just don't get 'it'. Whatever 'it' may be.
Take care - Scottie :)
While I understand the theory behind us taking immuno-supressant therapy, my bad reactions to them has forced me to take a different path. I decided to support my immune system with vitamins, minerals, herbs, supplements and juice therapy. I do get my flu shot every year occasionally the Dr will give me the pneumonia shot. I see others with similar AI's that appear to be doing worse than I am and I have been dealing with these since 1984. I teach one class or k-5 graders at the most 4 days per week for one hour. I use reflexology and Reiki to help with pain and healing. I know that immuno-supressant therapy is the accepted method but I question how well it works when other have died from their health challenges. The worst that can happen to me is that one day I will die also, but so will everyone the question is from what.