Had my first rtx infusion yesterday. Took 6 tries to get a good vein... I am covered in bruises. They got in the veins just fine, got good blood return, then the vein would blow. I think it upset the nurses more than it did me. They pride themselves on hard sticks, (which I am) and "1 patient, 1 stick"... guess I blew that for them yesterday... took over an hour to finally get a good line, even after tourniquits, dangling arm, heating pads, etc.
Since I can't take Benydryl due to a heart condition they used a small dose of Claritin instead before the Solumedrol and rtx. Had some minor reaction to the rtx. Blood pressure dropped pretty low and temp started to go up, and slight itchy throat, tongue and inside ears, and face... but we slowed the dose and everything stabilized.
Just a shout out to the infusion nurses at the office... Cathy and Lenore ROCK! They kept things calm but upbeat, gave lots of encouragement and hugs... fetched water, passed out cookies, pillows, blankets, recipes (lol). Even a stuffed dog for the occasional snuggle.... they made what could be a miserable way to spend the day a whole lot better...
Didn't sleep hardly at all last night (probably due to the 100 Solumedrol), feel really tired today, and have had a headache since infusion. Guess killing off all those nasty B Cells is more work than I thought. lol Doc said I should start feeling better in a couple of weeks. I can't wait.
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