Doctor, doctor
December 23, 2011 6:11 AM Subscribe
Is it okay for someone suffering from abdominal tuberculosis (Koch's abdomen) to smoke or drink (alcohol) in moderation?
If anyone offers specific advice on this I would suggest it is highly suspect. First of all I can not imagine any reputable health professional endorsing smoking under any condition ( the exception being terminally ill patients). Second, it really depends on what you mean by 'OK", "moderation" and the state of your overall health.
posted by rmhsinc at 7:46 AM on December 23, 2011
posted by rmhsinc at 7:46 AM on December 23, 2011
Best answer: Are they currently receiving tuberculosis treatment? Commonly used treatments like isoniazid, rifampicin, and pyrazinamide are each really hard on the liver and are associated with elevated liver enzyme levels and increased risk of hepatitis. One should not use alcohol while being treated with those drugs.
In addition to drug considerations, smoking and drinking both compromise your immune system in general. Smoking cigarettes significantly decreases natural killer cell activity and depresses levels of certain immunoglobulins. Even moderate alcohol use has been shown to transiently compromise immune system function. Not desirable effects in anyone, especially someone who is dealing with chronic infection.
posted by kalanchoe at 10:53 AM on December 23, 2011 [3 favorites]
In addition to drug considerations, smoking and drinking both compromise your immune system in general. Smoking cigarettes significantly decreases natural killer cell activity and depresses levels of certain immunoglobulins. Even moderate alcohol use has been shown to transiently compromise immune system function. Not desirable effects in anyone, especially someone who is dealing with chronic infection.
posted by kalanchoe at 10:53 AM on December 23, 2011 [3 favorites]
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Please talk to your doctor.
posted by TryTheTilapia at 7:02 AM on December 23, 2011 [1 favorite]