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Can Lupus Cause Herpes Infection?

Posted on Mon, 2 Mar 2015

Question: Can lupus cause herpes?

Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Due to decreased immunity

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM and thanks for your query.
I understand your concern.
Lupus decreases your immunity and makes you more prone for infections including Herpes.
Herpes infection can occur through non sexual means also.
Take care,
Dr Noble Zachariah

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Noble Zachariah (6 hours later)

I do not have a lot of problems with it, but I am on so much medications now I am scared to ask for something to help with this. Any suggestions?

Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Take care to avoid spread

Detailed Answer:
Herpes can cause painful sores and can be severe in people with suppressed immune systems. If you touch your sores or the fluids from the sores, you may transfer herpes to another part of your body, such as your eyes. Do not touch the sores or fluids to avoid spreading herpes to another part of your body. If you touch the sores or fluids, immediately wash your hands thoroughly to help avoid spreading your infection.
If you would let me know your current medicines, I can advise you on further management.
If you believe in natural substances, there is something that my patients find beneficial.
If there is no interaction with your current medicines, I could let you know the same.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Noble Zachariah (12 hours later)

Here is my medication list: Lyrica, Flexeril, Tramdol, Xanax, Savella, Amitriptyline, Liptor Zebeta, Plaquenil, Evoxac, Folic Acid, Methotrexate, Zofran, Phenegran. Over the counter: Aspirin (CABG), Vitiamin D, Multi Vitamin. I take everyone daily except the Zofran & Phenegran as they are PRN.

Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Acyclovir topical application helpful

Detailed Answer:
I see that you are on a large number of medicines. Have you on these for long? Have you ever tried reducing some of them?
Since you do not have any sexual partner and you only have a limited area of involvement, I do not want to add to your burden of taking tablets. Acyclovir ( Zovirax) is available as a topical application and you can use it 3 times a day.
The natural substance which my patients have found very helpful is aloe vera.
Both the medicines I have mentioned do not interact with your current medicines.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Noble Zachariah (33 minutes later)

I have been on the Lupus drugs for 10+ years. Most of the others are for the firbromyalgia, Sjogrens & CAD. All of my doctors see the list each visit and no one changes or takes away any of them. Is the Acyclovir by prescription and how is the aloe vera taken?

Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Discuss with your doctors about tapering non essential medicines.

Detailed Answer:
You have to continue your medicines for Lupus and CAD.
The others may be tapered with your doctors' consent.
Acyclovir oral is a prescription medicine. Please check with the pharmacists regarding topical. Aloe vera is available as a topical preparation and oral. There is no interaction with your current medicines. Better to use only local now.

Wish you good health and a great day

Note: For further information on diet changes to reduce allergy symptoms or to boost your immunity, Ask here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar