So, I haven't written about the dreaded A word in a while. I guess it's time for an update. Iron deficiency ANEMIA is alive and well in my life. Hasn't gone away--in fact, it seems to be flexing it's muscles.My wonderful hematologist, who I actually love and hate at the same time, has decided that my rigorous regiment of iron pills is not working. My hemoglobin is still extremely low. He put me on a new regiment. Twice weekly visits to his office to receive IV iron.
I started last week. It's really not that bad, just time consuming. And quite humbling as well. It's a bit hard to whine about going twice weekly for iron when everyone else there is coming for chemo. Yes, I'm truly blessed, as it could be a lot worse. And also, his staff is amazing. They are the most competent and loving group of medical professionals that I've ever encountered.
So anyhow, yesterday I arrived for my iron. I'd already had 2 bags last week, with no complications. I expected to continue the streak yesterday. NOT! Halfway through the bag, I suddenly became very lightheaded and my skin felt tingly all over. I called for the nurse, and discovered that the volume control on my voice had been lowered considerably. The nurses sprang into action. They immediately disconnected the IV and pushed my chair back so that I was reclining. They checked my vitals. The doctor came in and listened to my heart. They started a new IV with Benadryl and I fell off to sleep. I woke up an hour later and they were still monitoring my blood pressure. At this point is was 179/103. Good grief! Soon, though, it became normal and I hung around for yet another hour, just as a precaution. I drove home, ate a bit, and slept through until this morning.
It was quite scary, though I was very calm during the entire episode. They'll probably change me to another brand of IV iron for my next infusion. Aint life grand!
Your comments--priceless!!
