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?
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.
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
Silicone floater after Avastin Injection
Blurry vision after 2nd Avastin injection
Avastin mandated as first drug to try by my insurance-caused silicone floater
