IVIG-What can I expect?

Hi,

I am new here and this is my first post. I have gestational ITP (2nd pregnancy with it), I am 36 weeks and I'm on 80 mg prednisone daily and my platelets have decreased with this treatment from low 80 10e3/ul to 63 10e3/ul. My hematologist has scheduled me for IVIG, 2 days of infusion. I am wondering about side effects and how I might feel after receiving the infusion. I realize everyone will respond differently, but what should I potentially be prepared for during and after.? I will remain on prednisone through the infusion.

Thank you so much for your help!

Hi. Welcome. That's an awful lot of Prednisone to be on if it's not working. How long have you been on it?

Your counts are not that bad and although I understand that they would want them up for delivery, they are not critical.

As for IVIG - the worst side effect that people experience is aseptic meningitis. It usually occurs 8 to 48 hours after the infusion and the symptoms are severe headache, nausea and maybe vomiting. It does not happen to everyone though which is good. The best way to prevent it is to make sure they give you a very slow drip, and stay hydrated. Drink a lot of water the day before and during the infusions. Many doctors and nurses are not aware of this possible side effect and it blows my mind. It's fairly common. It usually goes away by itself after a few days, but can be difficult to get through.

Thank you very much!