Should I take antibiotic if I have psoriasis ?

[kh924]

I am pretty certain I have an ear infection. Not trying to self diagnose here, I've just had so many of them over the years and know the symptoms all too well. This is the first time I've had one since being diagnosed with psoriasis, however, and I don't want to do ANYTHING that might cause a flare after being clear on Acitretin 8 months after starting it. I've been tolerating the ear pain, pressure and dizziness for about two weeks now taking only Tylenol and hoping it would clear on its own yet it's getting particularly bothersome when singing - ears are popping. Ugh.

Thoughts?

[Fred]

I am pretty certain I have an ear infection.  Not trying to self diagnose here, I've just had so many of them over the years and know the symptoms all too well. This is the first time I've had one since being diagnosed with psoriasis, however, and I don't want to do ANYTHING that might cause a flare after being clear on Acitretin 8 months after starting it. I've been tolerating the ear pain, pressure and dizziness for about two weeks now taking only Tylenol and hoping it would clear on its own yet it's getting particularly bothersome when singing - ears are popping. Ugh.

Thoughts?

Some antibiotics can react with Acitretin but: No interaction results found between Acitretin and Tylenol, however that does not guarantee there will be no reaction it just means there are none stated.

*You should always check with a professional first though before taking other drugs with Acitretin.

[kh924]

Thanks Fred. I'm more concerned with what I've read about psoriasis flares being brought on following a course of antibiotics. Heading to urgent care shortly.

[Fred]

Thanks Fred. I'm more concerned with what I've read about psoriasis flares being brought on following a course of antibiotics. Heading to urgent care shortly.

Yes they can bring on a flare, but you have to weigh up the for and against. Is it best to fight the problem, or is best to get rid of the problem? Just because you know there is a possibility of a flare, it doesn't always mean you will be unfortunate enough to get one. Plus your Ear infection may cause a flare anyway as it's bothering you, catch 22 really just be careful what you take with Acitretin I can always check for interactions if you want.

[kh924]

Just spoke to my dermatologist. He says infection, not antibiotics, cause a psoriasis flare. Who knew?!

[jiml]

I can only talk from my experience but antibiotics or any tablets ive taken have n
ever made any difference to my psoriasis .... It just does as it pleases ... But the last 3 years I have been clear and had a few courses of antibiotics and never had a flare..... However it's just my experience

[kh924]

Good to know Jim, thanks. I have a double ear infection and was put on antibiotics.

[mataribot]

There is little evidence outside Guttate Psoriasis that bacterial infections cause flares in psoriasis. The two infections that typically cause the flare are Strep and Staph. However it simply is worth the risk. Antibiotics should not be an issue with most psoriasis, but it maybe a concern for yeast infections and possibly inverse psoriasis.

I'd be more concerned about the infection than the psoriasis at this point

[kh924]

Thanks Mataribot.
I stayed home and slept all day and night yesterday. I hope the antibiotics kick in soon. The ear pressure is pretty uncomfortable.

In other news, Boston is getting another foot of snow this weekend
Don't you wish you were here?

[jiml]

Thanks Mataribot.
I stayed home and slept all day and night yesterday. I hope the antibiotics kick in soon. The ear pressure is pretty uncomfortable.

In other news, Boston is getting another foot of snow this weekend
Don't you wish you were here?

I'm on my way with my sled tucked under my arm