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Humira Lung Problems

Humira is a medication of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family that neutralizes a protein in the body known to cause inflammation. The medication is indicated for use in patients with conditions such as Crohn's disease, which is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the bowel, and arthritis. While Humira is extremely successful in treating painful inflammation, the medication is not without complications, including those that affect the respiratory tract.

  1. How It Affects the Body

    • In addition to the positive effect of reducing inflammation, Humira has the negative effect of lowering the immune system's response. This results in the inability to fight off certain infections, such as tuberculosis (a serious respiratory infection) and other infections that affect the lungs.

    Relations to Lung Problems

    • The Humira medication itself does not cause lung problems, but instead leaves the body more vulnerable to viral, bacterial or fungal infections that can affect the body. According to the Humira website, these infections can be fatal in some instances. Additional complications associated with the medication include developing nervous system problems, blood problems, heart failure, allergic reactions or even lupus-like symptoms.

    Before Beginning

    • Before beginning Humira use, you should be tested for tuberculosis, on the chance that this lung problem can occur. Additionally, you should notify your doctor if you have any respiratory symptoms that could indicate an infection, such as fever, cough, fatigue or coughing up mucus. You should also notify your doctor if you have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with tuberculosis or have traveled to a country with a high population of tuberculosis patients.

    TB Development

    • Even in patients who tested negatively for tuberculosis prior to beginning treatment, tuberculosis can still be diagnosed. Notify your doctor if you have symptoms such as chronic cough, low-grade fever, experience sudden weight loss or loss of body fat or muscle.

    Regular Testing

    • If your doctor feels you are at an increased risk for tuberculosis while taking Humira, he may recommend beginning tuberculosis treatments in advance of beginning Humira. If not, your physician should carefully monitor your symptoms and administer regular tuberculosis tests in order to ensure you do not have this or another serious lung infection.

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