If Your Gastroenterologist Has You On Immunosuppressants For IBD, Here’s What You Need To Know

For diseases like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease, your gastroenterologist likely has prescribed you immune suppressing medication to reduce inflammation. Medications can vary, but the most common drugs given is Azathioprine (Imuran), Methotrexate, and Ciclosporin. For many patients, they have to weigh their options on whether they would rather have a compromised immune system or experience the agonizing symptoms of their irritable bowel disease.

Ulcerative Colitis for example, is categorized as an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to become hyper-active. One of the few treatment options involves medication to deplete the immune system that mistakenly attacks the large intestine, causing excessive bleeding, scarring, and anemia.

During this treatment process, it is extremely easy to get sick. Often, your GI will recommend setting an appointment with physicians specializing in immunology. Here at Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group, we have the expertise to help you get through immunosuppressing medications. Call us at 805-658-9500 to explore your options today, or schedule an appointment online. To learn more, read on below.

Use extra precaution to avoid illness

It can go without saying, since your immune system will be suppressed, it is likely at some point you will get sick. There are however precautions you can take to make getting sick less frequent. We should all be used to those precautions by now because of Covid-19. As a reminder, especially because it is extremely important for immune deficient patients, here are some tips to keep yourself safe.

1. Wear a mask in public
2. Maintain good hygiene
3. Wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer
4. Limit contact with people who are sick
5. Care for any scratches or open wounds
6. Take care of yourself
7. See an Immunologist

You can get through this

We know how difficult your journey has been. Being immune deficient while juggling your IBD symptoms is challenging, frustrating, and draining. We can help you through this tough time in your life with our physicians that specialize in all types of immune deficiency. Reach out to Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group at 805-658-9500 to schedule an appointment and discover ways we can help.