While intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) can be a powerful treatment for fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) and other conditions, it doesn’t always come without side effects.
Flu-like symptoms are some of the most common and well-documented side effects of IVIG therapy, and severity can vary from patient to patient. Symptoms can range from nausea to sore throat to fatigue, and can be so severe that you may think you have caught the flu.
Here’s what you can do to manage flu-like symptoms associated with IVIG.
Speak to your doctor
If the flu-like symptoms associated with IVIG treatment are making you feel unwell and drained, it is important to let your doctor know. Your doctor will be able to assess your physical health to ascertain the severity of these flu-like symptoms and whether they are caused by IVIG treatment.
There are a few things that a doctor can do to try to alleviate symptoms. For example, your doctor may ask for the infusion rate to be slowed down or to have more breaks in between infusions.
Read more about FNAIT testing and diagnosis
Another thing your doctor can do is to give you additional fluids or prescribe medication to manage your symptoms. For example, if you suffer from headaches, your doctor may be able to prescribe you some painkillers that can lower your pain levels.
Make yourself as comfortable as possible
Because IVIG infusions typically take hours, it is a good idea to decide in advance what to bring along with you to make your time as comfortable as possible. The more comfortable you are, the less likely you will feel stress associated with the treatment, which can exacerbate flu-like symptoms.
Try to bring something to do, like a book or a tablet that you can use to play games, watch your favorite show or write. Also, be sure to be dressed comfortably, and consider loose fitting clothing to allow for easy venous access. You might also want to pack a sweater or blankets in case the treatment room is cold.
Switching treatments
If you have done all of the above and are still experiencing severe flu-like symptoms that are prolonged and uncomfortable, your doctor may need to stop your IVIG treatment and consider an alternative. Every patient is different, and a change in treatment may mean an end to your side effects and a start to a more comfortable treatment experience.
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