Common Variable Immunodeficiency Support Group

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a group of 20-30 primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) which have a common set of symptoms but with different underlying causes. CVID's underlying causes are different, but the result of these are that the body doesn't produce sufficient antibodies in response to exposure to pathogens.

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Sheriann 12/04/2016

I've been receiving Infuions for nearly six months and haven't been getting the bladder, sinus or intestinal infections that I had previously had which I am so thankful for; however this last Infusion was kind of a nightmare.

I'm a tough stick anyway, but I stopped counting after the sixth poke. Then two hours in I started to get hives despite all my premeds. The doc came in and looked, gave me an explanation I didn't understand and an allergy pill. It seemed to help a bit. But lo and behold, it flared up again, and by the time I left, they had to give me steroids pills and cream.

Argh, I hope I'm not going to have to add Steroids to my regimen of premeds. I just heard they make you puffy and gain weigh. Is that true?

sonnycamehome 12/04/2016

I used to have to take steroids (Prednisone) the day before, the day of, and for 3 days after my Infusions due to reactions. I've been getting infusions for 7 years, and this was early on in my treatment. Generally you don't have the weight gain and puffiness unless you are on a daily regiment of steroids. If you are on them just a few days a month due to your infusions you should be fine. Also, a low dose of daily steroids may not cause weight gain either, but most Dr's don't want to put you on a daily dose, they just give you the steroids during your infusion period for up to maybe a week.

Also, over time your body may adjust to the infusions, and like me you may out grow the need for steroids completely.

Wishing you all the best!

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