Avastin : Three weeks ago had my first... - Macular Society

Macular Society

5,258 members2,602 posts

Avastin

Seemeno profile image
3 Replies

Three weeks ago had my first injection for wet AMD. I know I experienced extreme fatigue the first week. Don’t know if it was from the avistin or the anesthesia drops So they could give me the injection.

Also, since that time, I have had anxiety attacks which is not normal for me. I do not see anxiety listed as a side effect Avastin. Does anyone know if this could be a side effect of the medication Or where I go to find out?

Written by
Seemeno profile image
Seemeno
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
3 Replies
loisbetz profile image
loisbetz

Emotional exhaustion and anxiety are common when you first start with eye injections. For my first few injections I would be so anxious I would be unable to sleep the night before. After a few, I became used to it and realized the anxiety was worse than the shot. I no longer have anxiety or fear. I just find the shots an inconvenient necessity to preserve my vision. I have had mostly good experiences with the shots. I found it helpful at the beginning to rest or sleep following the appointment and that was for the emotional toll my anxiety produced. It will get better, you’ll see.

Catseyes235 profile image
Catseyes235

When I first had diagnosis and first injection I too felt quite emotional and drained. The tension has lessened as treatment has continued but my friends usually know when I’m coming up to injection time as I can be impatient and tetchy a few days before so obviously still not totally relaxed about it. Also injections are 4 weeks apart at first so no sooner got over one than you’re thinking of the next one! Now I have 12 weeks between fir one eye but then had to start on second every 4 weeks, now 6 weeks. After talking to many patients over the last 3 years I would say you never really feel totally relaxed about having an eye injection even though there are far far worse conditions and treatments that people go through.

I hope your anxiety decreases with time and meanwhile do talk to friends and family about how you feel - you’ll probably find most people are very understanding. Even doctors, nurses and dentists and anyone I talk to flinch at the idea of an injection in the eye!!

You've had to deal with a huge emotional impact - first the diagnosis then the inj. and the uncertain future. Be kind to yourself, sight problems are known to be akin to bereavement emotionally.

Counselling may help - the macular society have a very good helpline. Sending you a hug x

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Avastin

Just wondering what are the views on Avastin injections, and the side affects being encountered. I...
MacularAnn profile image

Anyone having blood pressure issues following IV Avastin injections?

Hi everyone; I hope all is well. I'm nearly six weeks post first intravitreal(IV) Avastin injection...
Edman777 profile image

Avastin

Can anyone of working age tell me if thay go back to work or take the whole day of after an...
caddy45 profile image

Silicone floater after Avastin Injection

I had an Avastin Injection in my left eye for WMD February 2019. Since the injection, I am seeing a...
jba249 profile image

Blurry vision after 2nd Avastin injection

Hi; Developed idiopathic CNV with serous detatchment of my macula. Received my first avastin...
Edman777 profile image

Moderation team

See all

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.