Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
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.

What is the link between Prednisone use and pneumonia

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Matthews, NC
April 13
 · 
Reactions
A myRAteam Member

Artsygirl, I have an immune deficiency disorder, so antibiotics and Prednisone can lower your immune system. If I do steroids it's lower dose and not for a long time. Same with the antibiotics.

April 13
A myRAteam Member

Good luck Artsygirl!

April 17
A myRAteam Member

Thanks, Carol. I've had pneumonia twice in the last 16 months. I had the vaccines and thank goodness it was mild and I recovered quickly. I went off Prednisone this month. I fell and broke my ankle in December. The bone isn't healed so I got a Reclast infusion yesterday. Hoping for good results 🙏

April 17
myRAteam

How does prednisone use relate to pneumonia risk?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid that suppresses your immune system to help manage RA symptoms and inflammation. While this immune suppression helps control your condition, it can make you more vulnerable to infections, including pneumonia.

When your immune system is Show Full Answer

How does prednisone use relate to pneumonia risk?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid that suppresses your immune system to help manage RA symptoms and inflammation. While this immune suppression helps control your condition, it can make you more vulnerable to infections, including pneumonia.

When your immune system is suppressed by prednisone, your body has a harder time fighting off bacteria and viruses that can cause respiratory infections like pneumonia. This is why it's especially important to stay up to date with your vaccinations.

If your doctor recommends it, make sure to get your yearly flu shot and pneumonia vaccine. These vaccines can help protect you from infections that could lead to serious complications, especially while taking immunosuppressant medications like prednisone.

Talk to your rheumatologist about your specific risk factors and what preventive steps make sense for you while on prednisone treatment.

April 13
COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Essential Updates Read more >
A myRAteam Member

I always have a cold

April 13

Related Questions

View All

Predniose causing redness

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Toledo, OH
March 18, 2018

Is there a link between Optical Migraines and RA?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Viera, FL
February 1, 2023

Methotrexate for RA: Safe Use, Side Effects, and What To Expect
Tap Into the Power of Directness: Use "I"
Rheumatoid Arthritis vs. Gout: What Is the Difference?