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.
I was just diagnosed yesterday with CVID. I had been seeing a rheumatologist and had blood work completed and it showed low IgG and IgA levels. She sent me to an allergy/immunology doctor and he had me get a pneumonia shot. My response to the shot was poor so I was diagnosed with CVID. I do not get sick often. I do have some gastrointestinal problems like IBS but nothing serious. I do have a lot of fatigue and don’t feel rested after sleeping . But I am having problems excepting this diagnosis. I am also very scared of getting infusions. Should I consider getting shots even if I feel OK? I am thinking of getting a second opinion. Maybe I am just in complete denial.
I have just diagnosed myself but before so I had to learn and research myself. Following the bread crumb of symptoms, the doctors didn't care to put together and find. So I know how hard it is to trust them. I got the blood panel done by to different doctors that show my levels were seriously low. I always say get a second opinion if you can. However, I have learned that most people with CVID have gastro issues and that makes sense, being that 70% of our immune systems are located in your stomach. I would advise you to start treatment before it escalates to you being like me who can't leave my house until I start my injections and then 2-3 months after that. Acceptance is key to creating our new normal, which can be exciting and change our lives for the better! You are not alone!