Not all Primary Immunodeficiencies can be treated in the same way. Today, we’re continuing our treatment overview series by explaining how antibiotics are used to manage and treat patients young and old.
Jeffrey had the recurring infections typical of Primary Immunodeficiency, and our lives became a whirlwind of hospitals and doctor’s offices. Every succeeding illness disrupted his young life. There were so many lonely nights in the hospital, and so many lonely days when he was sick at home.
Because PI patients already have a weak immune system, it’s essential to manage infections as soon as they start and take action to prevent future infections. Antibiotics are used to prevent or clear bacterial infections and will be appropriately prescribed by your physician. If you don’t notice any change or progress, you may need a higher dose or longer course of antibiotics. Be sure to always stay in touch with your physician and ask questions!
Preventing future infections is just as important as treating current infections—boosting the immune system is key for promoting long-term survival and quality of life. Your physician might prescribe long-term, low-dose antibiotics to prevent possible respiratory infections and organ damage with the goal of increasing quality of life.
More than thirty years after we started the Foundation, we’re still dedicated to our mission of hope, advocacy, and action to achieve early diagnosis and meaningful treatments for all patients living with Primary Immunodeficiency. Stay tuned next month for another treatment overview!