When it comes to the COVID-19 coronavirus, you might think you’ve heard it all by now.
I get it. It can certainly feel that way when they repeat the same information for the umpteenth time on the evening news while pretending it’s new.
But today, I’ve got some news that really is new. And this information could be vital for keeping you, or someone you care about, safe.
Scientists have uncovered what could be a significant risk factor for the coronavirus. One that could leave you exposed to infection and more prone to suffering from the worst complications.
But here’s the thing. It’s NOT something you’d even think of as a “risk” factor. Because this isn’t something that happened to you. And it’s not something you “picked up” out there.
It was GIVEN TO YOU by your own doctor.
He’s not trying to hurt you, of course. He’s trying to protect you. And this is something that no one would have guessed could be connected to the ongoing pandemic.
But as the latest research reveals, it’s something millions of Americans facing common health conditions now have to start looking out for ASAP.
HIDDEN condition could put you at risk
You already know by now that if you have a ailment like diabetes or heart disease, you’re more vulnerable to this infection.
But now there’s something else you need to look out for. Your MEDS!
Certain drugs appear to leave some people much more vulnerable to infection – especially meds commonly given for the three big “A” conditions…
- Arthritis
- Allergies
- Asthma
All three conditions are often treated with glucocorticoids, steroid drugs that are used to help reduce the inflammation that goes hand-in-hand with these common ailments.
The trouble is your body has its OWN steroid system that naturally attacks infections. And the new study finds the meds can BLOCK that natural built-in system.
That, in turn, can ultimately make it harder for your system to fight off infections, including the one caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus.
On a steroid? Here’s what to do next
If you’re on a steroid med – commonly given via tablets, creams, inhalers, and injections – talk to your doc about other options.
Odds are that conversation is overdue to begin with, as these medications are often oversold and overused. In many cases, steroid “benefits” have been over-exaggerated when safer options would work as well without the risks.
A 2017 study, for example, compared corticosteroids – a type of glucocorticoid – to saline shots in folks with knee pain from arthritis. And the drug made NO DIFFERENCE at all.
In the meantime, if you’re on one of these drugs, or have taken one recently, you should consider yourself “higher-risk” when it comes to the coronavirus infection. And don’t take any chances.
Play it safe and follow ALL of the standard precautions from frequent hand washing to extreme social distancing.
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