What causes recurrent infections?
Recurrent infections can reflect immunodeficiency, uncontrolled diabetes, nutritional deficiency (zinc, vitamin D), iron deficiency, or immunosuppressive medications.
Full answer
Recurrent or unusual infections warrant a structured immune review. Common contributors include uncontrolled diabetes (raised A1C, glucose), low vitamin D, low zinc, iron deficiency, and immunosuppressive medications. Lymphocyte counts and broader CBC differential are reviewed, along with consideration of HIV testing and primary immunodeficiency screening when patterns warrant. Within oMeds review, modifiable nutritional and metabolic contributors are addressed; specialist referral is pursued for suspected primary immunodeficiency.
Educational. Not a substitute for individualized provider review.
- Vitamin D 25-OH — Primary source · oMeds
- Reviewed by Dr. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA · Clinical Director, oMeds · Last reviewed 2026-05-29