Infusions

Had my first infusion today went well didn't kno I Had to have steroids first like trying to stay of them due to weight issues felt ok today but now have a headache from hell bad stomach feel sick and exhausted and ideas is this the side effects x

[Hidden]

I had a really bad headache after my 1st infusion, I got told to drink lots of water before, during and after infusions, I did this and it does help.

Hope infusions work for you.

[Hidden]

I do get to hear that also..about adding steroid...what is the point? To make sure you will get a hip replacement? I've heard concerns expressed by other patients. You're referring to IVIG yes?

[Ozzy]

I also find that drinking lots of water before, during and afterwards helps. Don't know which drug you are on as I have never had steroids with mine. I used to have antihistamine first with rituxmab but now on tocilizumab I don't have anything beforehand.

[Hidden]

Oh honey, lm sorry that you feel so unwell after your infusion. It's hard on the body.

[BR15]

Be sure to report your headache and other reactions so they can document it. One unit that I received Rituxan infusions at had as part of their protocol, a phone call the day after every infusion (mine are 4 times a year) to ask about any reactions. This was then added to the patient record as well as an overall database for research purposes. I am in a different city now where my Rheumatologist has an Infusion Unit right there in the office - about 10 chairs. Reactions I have had are extreme fatigue the day after (sometimes - not always), flushing of the face the night after an infusion and waking up the next morning looking beet red, as if I had been sunburned. Dissipates by midday.

I hope you are able to continue with the infusions. They have been very effective for me but I have seen other patients react to the infusion and have had to stop. Your body tells you if it is not for you.

[Hidden]

Yes. Also, some people get a low dose IVIG..others may have a higher dosage.