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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
October 25, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members reassured someone newly diagnosed with RA who was worried about catching a cold, with the overwhelming consensus being that colds... Read more

Members reassured someone newly diagnosed with RA who was worried about catching a cold, with the overwhelming consensus being that colds should be treated normally but may last longer and cause more achiness than before. Several members emphasized practical prevention strategies like frequent handwashing after public contact, taking vitamins, and staying aware of secondary infections like bronchitis or pneumonia that may require antibiotics. A recurring theme was the importance of stopping RA medications while on antibiotics to allow the immune system to fight infection effectively, and while some members shared serious experiences with sepsis, the community offered both caution and courage, reminding each other that they have survived and can face these challenges together.

A myRAteam Member

There's really nothing to do differently - just know that getting a cold will make you more achy that the average person and it may last longer for you than for non-RA folks.
When I was first diagnosed, one of my first questions was, "Should I be working with 700 bundles of germs every day?" I am the tech director in an elementary school. My doctor said that wouldn't be a problem, and so far, it hasn't.
In 2011, I experienced being hospitalized with sepsis because my body couldn't fight an infection. I'm told I was very close to death. That's a danger we all face with RA and it changed me both physically and emotionally. But knowing that I did survive makes the next time a little scary.

October 26, 2017
A myRAteam Member

Suppressed immune systems caused by meds will bring on infections. So for antibiotics to work, you need to stop said meds.

November 15, 2017
A myRAteam Member

Nothing to do differently. The best thing you can do is take mega vitamins & try to stay away from anyone who has a cold or flu.

October 27, 2017
A myRAteam Member

Just treat it like you usually do, notify dr. if you get short of breath or unusual cough or something that concerns you. Your meds are supposed to help your body handle problems normally. Just beware of secondary infections, sinus, lung kinda stuff.

October 25, 2017
A myRAteam Member

I've been lucky not to get sick more often with a compromised immune system due to RA. I might wash and purell my hands a little more though! Otherwise I've treated a cold just like I did before RA.

October 29, 2017

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