Lupus and Infections in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly called lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. People living with lupus in Grand Rapids, Michigan are at higher risk for infections and infection-related complications. This increased risk comes from both the disease itself and from many of the medications used to control lupus.

Cold West Michigan winters, frequent respiratory viruses, and changing seasons around the Great Lakes can make infection prevention especially important for people with lupus in the Grand Rapids area.

Why People With Lupus Get More Infections

Your immune system is made up of many types of cells and proteins that work together to protect your body from germs like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Normally:

  • Your body detects germs
  • Your immune system activates to fight them
  • Once the infection is controlled, the immune response “switches off”

With lupus, the immune system malfunctions. Instead of only attacking germs, it also attacks healthy tissues, including:

  • Skin
  • Joints
  • Kidneys
  • Lining of the heart and lungs

This ongoing attack causes chronic inflammation, pain, and tissue damage.

How Lupus Medications Affect Infection Risk

To control this overactive immune response, many people with lupus are prescribed immunosuppressive medications, such as:

  • Corticosteroids (like prednisone)
  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
  • Biologic medications
  • Other immune-suppressing drugs

These medications calm the immune system and help prevent flares, but they affect the entire immune system. They do not target only the malfunctioning cells; they also weaken normal white blood cells that fight infection. As a result:

  • Your body may have a weaker response to bacterial infections
  • You are more vulnerable to common infections and opportunistic infections (infections that take advantage of a weakened immune system)

In a city like Grand Rapids, where people spend more time indoors together during long winters, this weakened immune defense can increase the chance of catching respiratory infections.

Common Infections in People With Lupus

People with lupus in Grand Rapids are prone to many of the same infections that affect the general population, but they may be more frequent or more severe. Common infections include:

Respiratory Tract Infections

Cold, dry Michigan winters and indoor heating can irritate airways and increase the spread of viruses and bacteria. Common respiratory infections include:

  • Sinus infections (sinusitis)
  • Bronchitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Colds and flu (influenza)

Skin Infections

Skin is often affected in lupus, and medications can make it easier for germs to enter through breaks in the skin. Common skin infections include:

  • Staphylococcus aureus (staph) infections
  • Infected cuts, scrapes, or rashes

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

People with lupus, especially those with kidney involvement, have a higher risk of:

  • Bladder infections
  • Kidney infections

Opportunistic Infections

When the immune system is suppressed, certain organisms that usually don’t cause disease can lead to infection. These include:

  • Candida albicans (a fungus that can cause oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections, or skin infections)
  • Other fungal infections
  • Certain viral infections, such as herpes zoster (shingles)

Although people with lupus are more susceptible to these microorganisms, many infections are still mild and treatable when caught early.

Lupus vs. Infection: Telling the Difference

In Grand Rapids, where seasonal viruses are common, it can be difficult to tell whether new symptoms are caused by:

  • A lupus flare, or
  • An infection

Symptoms that can be seen in both include:

  • Fever
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle aches

This overlap can make diagnosis challenging. To complicate things further:

  • An infection can trigger a lupus flare, making both problems occur at the same time.
  • Some people with lupus have a chronic low-grade fever that is normal for them.

Tracking Your Temperature

It can help to:

  • Take your temperature daily at the same time
  • Keep a simple record so you know what is “normal” for you

You should contact your Grand Rapids healthcare provider if:

  • Your temperature is higher than usual for you
  • You develop new or unusual symptoms, such as:
    • Chills or shaking
    • Shortness of breath
    • New or worsening cough
    • Painful urination or blood in urine
    • New skin rash, redness, or warmth
    • Severe headache or neck stiffness

Diagnosing Infections in People With Lupus

If you live in the Grand Rapids area and have lupus, your doctor may use several tests to look for infection, including:

  • Physical examination
  • Blood tests (to look for signs of infection and inflammation)
  • Urine tests (to check for urinary tract or kidney infections)
  • Cultures, such as:
    • Throat cultures
    • Urine cultures
    • Wound or skin cultures
  • Chest X-ray (if pneumonia or another lung infection is suspected)

Local testing is available through major Grand Rapids healthcare systems such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and clinics affiliated with Mercy Health.

Treating Infections When You Have Lupus

Treatment depends on the type of germ causing the infection:

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics. In people with lupus, especially those on strong immunosuppressive drugs, treatment might include:

  • Oral antibiotics taken at home
  • Intravenous (IV) antibiotics in the hospital for more serious infections

You may be admitted to a hospital in Grand Rapids, such as:

  • Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids Hospital
  • Metro Health Hospital

Some people with lupus are allergic to sulfa antibiotics, which can cause:

  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
  • Skin rashes
  • Lower white blood cell counts

If you have lupus, sulfa antibiotics are often avoided when possible. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about any past reactions.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections, including Candida albicans, are treated with antifungal medications, which may be:

  • Creams for skin infections
  • Suppositories for vaginal yeast infections
  • Oral medications for more widespread or stubborn infections

Viral Infections

Many viral infections—such as common colds, mild sinus infections, and some cases of bronchitis—do not respond to antibiotics. Using antibiotics when they are not needed can lead to antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat.

For these viral infections, your doctor may recommend:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Short-term use of nasal sprays for congestion
  • Rest and increased fluids

Certain viral infections, such as herpes zoster (shingles), may be treated with antiviral medications.

Reducing Your Risk of Infection With Lupus in Grand Rapids

Because infections can be more serious when you have lupus, prevention is especially important. You can lower your risk by:

Everyday Hygiene and Home Care

  • Wash your hands thoroughly and often, especially during cold and flu season in West Michigan
  • Treat cuts and scrapes promptly:
    • Clean with soap and water
    • Apply an antiseptic
    • Cover with a clean bandage
  • Maintain high standards of personal hygiene
  • Clean your home regularly and thoroughly, especially kitchens and bathrooms
  • Replace or avoid old, soiled kitchen sponges and other items that harbor germs
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick (colds, flu, COVID-19, stomach bugs)

Vaccinations and Preventive Care

Talk to your Grand Rapids doctor or rheumatologist about:

  • Annual influenza (flu) vaccination
  • Pneumococcal vaccination (to help prevent certain types of pneumonia)
  • Other vaccines that might be recommended based on your age, medications, and health history

These vaccines are widely available through:

  • Primary care offices and rheumatology clinics
  • Hospital systems such as Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health
  • The Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health clinics
  • Local pharmacies throughout the Grand Rapids metro area

Always discuss vaccines with your lupus specialist first, especially if you are on strong immunosuppressive medications.

Before Dental or Surgical Procedures

Because certain procedures can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, your doctor may:

  • Recommend a preventive (prophylactic) course of antibiotics before dental work or surgery
  • Adjust your lupus medications temporarily, if needed

Always let your dentist, surgeon, or any specialist in Grand Rapids know that you have lupus and what medications you take.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Supporting your immune system with healthy daily habits is especially important in Michigan’s changing seasons:

  • Eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet:
    • Plenty of fruits and vegetables
    • Lean proteins
    • Whole grains
  • Stay well hydrated, particularly in heated indoor environments during winter
  • Get adequate sleep
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
  • Dress appropriately for cold Grand Rapids winters to avoid stress on your body from temperature extremes

Monitor Your Health Closely

  • Take your temperature daily so you know what is normal for you
  • Keep track of new or worsening symptoms
  • Contact your doctor early if you suspect an infection—early treatment can prevent complications

Local Lupus and Infection Care in Grand Rapids

If you live in the Grand Rapids area and have lupus, you can get help from:

  • Your primary care provider (GP/family doctor)
  • Rheumatologist – specialist in autoimmune and joint diseases
  • Immunologist – specialist in immune system disorders

These specialists are available through major local health systems, including:

  • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) Medical Group
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health and affiliated clinics

For public health resources, vaccines, and community programs, you can also contact:

  • Kent County Health Department
  • Grand Rapids Public Health clinics

If you have lupus and develop signs of infection—especially high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or severe pain—seek urgent care or emergency care at a local Grand Rapids hospital.

Key Points About Lupus and Infections in Grand Rapids

  • People with lupus have a weakened immune system because of both the disease and many of the medications used to treat it.
  • The most common infections affect the respiratory tract, skin, and urinary system.
  • Lupus causes ongoing inflammation, pain, and tissue damage, which can further increase infection risk.
  • Candida albicans and other opportunistic infections are more likely when the immune system is suppressed.
  • It can be difficult to tell whether symptoms like joint pain and fever are from a lupus flare or an infection, so medical evaluation is important.
  • Infection prevention—through hygiene, vaccinations, healthy habits, and regular care with Grand Rapids providers—is a key part of living well with lupus in West Michigan.