Have any PMR sufferers been recommended by their doctors to get flu shot? Since I am over 65, doctor also insists I get the 5-year pneumonia shot (which I got 4 years ago) and apparently, there'is another lifetime Pneumonia shot being recommended. I hate taking all these shots! However, my doctor says PMR will be greatly affected should I get the flu or, God forbid, pneumonia. Look forward to your resonses.
I have asked two of my physicians ( Rheumy and PCP ) and they both state to definitely get the vaccination.
I'm an Icu nurse...get the shot! It may save your life!
I had flu shot for first time in my life this year and pneumonia shot last year. No effect on pmr from shots.
I had the flu jab for the first time last year because I have PMR......no after effects. I had always been reluctant as I could have had it through my work but declined. I am 68.
My rheumatologist recommended the flu shot . Even though my immunity might be less from the shot because of pred I will get some protection from it. He also recommended I get it in Oct because the protection only lasts about 6 months.
I also have a supply of Tamiflu on hand because I have reduced pulmonary function from scoliosis and reactive airway disease.
Do you recommend getting both pneumonia shots as well?
None of my doctors have made such a recommendation, but then I'm in America, where the doctor only makes a brief cameo appearance to ask you how you are, listens to your heart, and then bustles out of the room like his butt was on fire! In America, you can't make money unless you spend 7 minutes or less with your patient.
Two years ago my mom died from the flu. I've always gotten the flu shot and will again this year regardless of the PMR.
I'm also in the USA. I make it a point to ask and not wait for them to suggest.
Hi. I have scoliosis but never heard of 'reactive' airways disease. I do have COPD however, are the two the same condition do you think? I'm in UK, we have some different names for some things I think.
My internist and rheumatologist both recommend flu and pneumonia vaccinations. I am also in the US and have fine, concerned MD's. They also said that I cannot have the Shingles vaccine until I am done with the prednisone. However, when I thought I was getting shingles a few weeks ago, I was offered anti-viral meds.
Thanks to all for your input. I guess i'll be getting flu shot in October. I think I 'll wait a bit for the pneumonia shot. Don't like all this stuff being injected into my system all at once. The last time I had the pneumonia shot, I couldn't lift my arm for 3 weeks. It was awful.
Yes I do! Every day I see previously healthy people die from pneumonia! The bugs around today can kill you fast! These vaccines are safe. Despite what you hear in social media, they have been well researched and they save lives!
Reactive airway disease means I get brinchospasm from certain things: smoke, strong smells, allergens particularly mold spores, humidity and pollen. I don't wheeze or cough like an asthmatic.
Restrictive lung disease is from scoliosis. My deformed chest refuses lung space. I've had corrective surgeries in 1956 and 2002- age 60- but my curves were so extreme and 3 of them that limited correction was possible. Fortunately I have NO pain.
Really? You are worried about lifting your arm? How about worrying about your family lifting your coffin!? Seriously, as someone posted above...the flu can kill you! I too had a sore arm after flu vaccine one year. Haven't had a sore arm in any I have had since then. A sore arm is nothing compared to being on a ventilator, having central line access, nasogastric tube, multiple drugs to keep you alive! Vaccines save lives!!
I meant reduces lung space- or capacity.
How awful! The doctors n America seem to not really want anything to do with ill people!😡. 7 minutes? It's ridiculous! My doctor (in Germany) once spent 3/4 of an hour, examining, phoning a specialist friend (300 miles away!) because he couldn't understand why my ESR and CRP levels kept rising - even on pred.
Can't you have the flu jab privately, or is it too expensive?
Under Obamacare immunizations/ preventive care are free. .
Pour country is going through a health insurance flux. As long as profit-making insurance companies are involved there will be issues with low Doctor reunbursents resulting in skimping on patient care. The Medicare health coverage for the elderly is a gov't program. I found the doctor, both specialist and gp spend enough time with me.
Had both shots last year (and I turned 65) and no effects. Get it!