Thursday, September 26, 2019

Post-Transplant Update: 26 September 2019

In my last entry I discussed the extreme vertigo that sent me to the ER. Though the cause of the vertigo is unknown--though suspected to be viral, I was hoping that it would soon disappear.

In all, it took between 5-6 days for the vertigo to completely dissipate. Additionally, the fatigue that followed is still dogging me to this day; though it has greatly improved from the sheer exhaustion that I felt at first. So, that's been fun...

Due to the effects from that whole incident, I have accomplished very little since then; which obviously includes updating this blog.
I had wanted to do a thorough catch-up today, but this morning I awoke feeling the onset of a head cold; which leaves my headache pounding, additional tiredness and several tender spots around my head and face. With my immune system low, I am just hoping and praying that my body can ward off getting really sick. We'll see.


My latest Nephrology visit went well. There are no changes to meds, and the doctor wants me to keep healing and strengthening. My next visit is in three months.

I also asked for a prescription for my yearly flu shot.

Normally, your local pharmacy will just administer the shot after you ask for it. However, with a transplant, your pharmacy may require--like mine--a prescription from your doctor that basically OK's the shot, while removing liability from the pharmacy should you have a negative reaction. Always check with your local pharmacy if, as a transplant patient, you need a Rx, too.
In the U,S, this years' flu shot covers not just one or two strains, but four! I don't know the ones it prevents, but if you need it, I'd advise getting your flu shot early in the season, as later times can run into supply issues.

In previous years the flu shots have not bothered me very much. However this year, my heart rate, blood pressure and body temp have all been elevated. I received the shot on Friday evening of 21 Sept. It took until yesterday evening (the following Wednesday) for all three of those vitals to settle down. 

As I was typing that last part, it occurred to me that there could be a connection between the flu shot, my lowered immune system and the onset of this head cold. I'm not saying that the shot was the cause; but I can definitely see the likelihood of such a side effect.

I think that I'll end this entry with that thought.

Next week I have my monthly labs and Belatacept infusion. I will update you with those lab results on Tuesday or Wednesday.

May you have a terrific weekend, filled with lots of smiles!

Good Health to All!

ScottW

No comments:

Post a Comment