Posted 1/25/2014 2:57 AM (GMT 0)
Hello all. I'm new to the forum. I've been on rituxin infusions for a few years now. I call it a miracle drug and I've been very happy with the results. I find myself lately worrying about the potential side effects. I just finished my second dose (5 weeks late due to a cold, holidays, business travel, drug shortage, infusion nurse pregnancy with triplets!!!), and I haven't felt very good the last few days. I'm not sure if it's related at all to the infusion, or if my diet (which hasn't been good during the holidays) has me all messed up. I'm retaining fluid in my face and hands, my face and neck was pink and flushed on day 2, and I'm having terrible indigestion. I don't typically experience any of these. I haven't journaled my days after infusion, but I think I should so I'll remember 6 months from now.
The second round of infusions was 4 months after the first ... Then I went about 5 months later the next 2 rounds. Each time I begin to feel the symptoms returning before the next infusion, but not unbearably. I'm planning on trying to go 6-8 months before my next round, but my rheumy cautions me that I don't want to let it get out of control before the next round.
I'm so thankful for this drug. "Better living thru chemistry" is my motto.. I CAN say, however, that I'm afraid of downstream side effects of the rituxin so I'm considering trying to go without it. I am taking mtx and folic acid, also metformin for Type 2 diabetes, bystolic for heart palpitations, benicar for high BP, and Lipitor for high cholesterol. Does that say anything about my diet?
I've enjoyed reading your posts and look forward to fearing from you.