Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 Thanks Ursula, When you say " try to keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just going " what do you mean by this? Lucas takes Miralax nightly-should we do a higher dose for a week to do a clean out? Did Macey used to have diarreah? Is that what you mean by being on the other side of the bowel issue? I have long suspected IBD for Lucas but we have been managing OK until recently. What was Macey's process of getting diagnosed with IBD like? And due to a flare she had to drop out of school? Has she ever tried short courses of steroids? Cyndi > > the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. > > We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. > > I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. > Ursula > Mom to (17) and Macey (14) > http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman > > > > > ________________________________ > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> > > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > Hi all, > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 Hi Cyndi, Sounds like this has been a tough road. My son is 14 and is about 150lbs and is doing 6gms per week. He is not on Viva but Gammagard SubQ. He is DOING GREAT! But he has been on infusions since he was 3. First IV then 4 years ago he started SubQ. It takes a little while to build up in the system but for us SubQ is fantastic. You do not have the peaks and troughs meaning the fatigue because his level stays constant rather than fluctuating with the Gamma globulin running out in 23days. I would say you need to give it at least 6 months to get him stable. How old is your son? My son has had a few breakthrough infections including pneumonia once but overall his gut issues have subsided, along with his chronic infections and severe allergy issues. I would just stay with it and give it a chance to readjust his system. I know it is hard to see your son so sick but it takes time for it to settle things down. BARBIE ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 2:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 Hi Cyndi, Sounds like this has been a tough road. My son is 14 and is about 150lbs and is doing 6gms per week. He is not on Viva but Gammagard SubQ. He is DOING GREAT! But he has been on infusions since he was 3. First IV then 4 years ago he started SubQ. It takes a little while to build up in the system but for us SubQ is fantastic. You do not have the peaks and troughs meaning the fatigue because his level stays constant rather than fluctuating with the Gamma globulin running out in 23days. I would say you need to give it at least 6 months to get him stable. How old is your son? My son has had a few breakthrough infections including pneumonia once but overall his gut issues have subsided, along with his chronic infections and severe allergy issues. I would just stay with it and give it a chance to readjust his system. I know it is hard to see your son so sick but it takes time for it to settle things down. BARBIE ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 2:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 Hi Cyndi, Sounds like this has been a tough road. My son is 14 and is about 150lbs and is doing 6gms per week. He is not on Viva but Gammagard SubQ. He is DOING GREAT! But he has been on infusions since he was 3. First IV then 4 years ago he started SubQ. It takes a little while to build up in the system but for us SubQ is fantastic. You do not have the peaks and troughs meaning the fatigue because his level stays constant rather than fluctuating with the Gamma globulin running out in 23days. I would say you need to give it at least 6 months to get him stable. How old is your son? My son has had a few breakthrough infections including pneumonia once but overall his gut issues have subsided, along with his chronic infections and severe allergy issues. I would just stay with it and give it a chance to readjust his system. I know it is hard to see your son so sick but it takes time for it to settle things down. BARBIE ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 2:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 I would agree with being consistent with the Miralax. You also might check with your doctor regarding a good multivitamin, Omega3s and also Probiotics. It has REALLY helped us overall. BARBIE ________________________________ From: Ursula Holleman <uahollem@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:04:44 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ____________ _________ _________ __ From: CYNDITK <cyndisongaia (DOT) com> groups (DOT) com Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 I would agree with being consistent with the Miralax. You also might check with your doctor regarding a good multivitamin, Omega3s and also Probiotics. It has REALLY helped us overall. BARBIE ________________________________ From: Ursula Holleman <uahollem@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:04:44 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ____________ _________ _________ __ From: CYNDITK <cyndisongaia (DOT) com> groups (DOT) com Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 I would agree with being consistent with the Miralax. You also might check with your doctor regarding a good multivitamin, Omega3s and also Probiotics. It has REALLY helped us overall. BARBIE ________________________________ From: Ursula Holleman <uahollem@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:04:44 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ____________ _________ _________ __ From: CYNDITK <cyndisongaia (DOT) com> groups (DOT) com Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi all, My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. Does anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks, Cyndi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 First check with your doctor but sometimes it takes 3 cup fulls at a time 3 times a day to get Macey going. Then she goes till she is clear and stays on enough of a dose of Miralax that she stays mushy. Keeping her like that for a week allows her gut to rest somewhat and the exhaustion to subside. Macey had chronic constipation from birth until about 2 years ago. At 6 years old she had a cecostomy tube placed in her colon to do antegrade enemas (washouts). She had had several NG tubes for GoLytely cleanouts and it was stripping her of the nutrients and causing havoc to her sinuses. So the tube was placed and washed everything out with gravity tube GoLytely each day. She had this for about 2 years until the stoma became infected. After that we had to rely on the Miralax and one or two more hospital admissions for cleanouts. Two years ago the tide turned and she had diarrhea and abdominal pain constantly. Low grade fevers. She had a colonoscopy and they say inflammation. She went on prednisone for an unrelated infection (pneumonia) and had relief. So they started her on Entocort which is a steroid made for Crohn's patients. Macey has been on steroids most of her life for infections and they've always provided gut relief too so it all made sense. She went on hospital homebound recently because of the abdominal pain and fatigue. Her weight had dropped almost 30 lbs and she was on as much IBD meds without switching to IV's. She recently started Asacol. So now Friday she has another colonoscopy and they will decide if she starts Imuran or Remicade next. Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 5:31:54 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Thanks Ursula, When you say " try to keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just going " what do you mean by this? Lucas takes Miralax nightly-should we do a higher dose for a week to do a clean out? Did Macey used to have diarreah? Is that what you mean by being on the other side of the bowel issue? I have long suspected IBD for Lucas but we have been managing OK until recently. What was Macey's process of getting diagnosed with IBD like? And due to a flare she had to drop out of school? Has she ever tried short courses of steroids? Cyndi > > the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. > > We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. > > I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. > Ursula > Mom to (17) and Macey (14) > http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __ > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> > groups (DOT) com > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > Hi all, > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 Thanks for sharing your story Ursula. Also thanks for the tips on Miralax, we'll try that. With my son it went the other way-chronic diarreah for all of early childhood that gradually turned to constipation as he got older-now its been constipation, nausea for the last 4 years, even with IG therapy, although he has started growing and gaining weight on IG, and the nausea has mostly gone away. I'm so sorry to hear of Macey's difficulties. I know how difficult the pain and fatigue can be. I hope she is enjoying homeschooling and has lots of relationships online! > > > > the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. > > > > We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. > > > > I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. > > Ursula > > Mom to (17) and Macey (14) > > http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman > > > > > > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __ > > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@> > > groups (DOT) com > > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM > > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > > > > > Hi all, > > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > > > Thanks, > > Cyndi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 Hi Barb, My son is the Lucas who is 14 who lives in Bothell. I hope your move is going well! Let me know when we can get the boys together. As I understand it from the pharmacist 6 grams per week is not the " correct " dose per his body weight- sounds like your son is heavier and is on the same dose. Do you know why that would be? Is dosage dependent on severity of symptoms overall, or IgG levels? best, Cyndi > > Hi Cyndi, Sounds like this has been a tough road. My son is 14 and is about 150lbs and is doing 6gms per week. He is not on Viva but Gammagard SubQ. He is DOING GREAT! But he has been on infusions since he was 3. First IV then 4 years ago he started SubQ. It takes a little while to build up in the system but for > > us SubQ is fantastic. You do not have the peaks and troughs meaning the fatigue because his level stays constant rather than fluctuating with the Gamma globulin running out in 23days. I would say you need to give it at least 6 months to get him stable. How old is your son? My son has had a few breakthrough infections including pneumonia once but overall his gut issues have subsided, along with his chronic infections and severe allergy issues. I would just stay with it and give it a chance to readjust his system. I know it is hard to see your son so sick but it takes time for it to settle things down. > BARBIE > > > > > ________________________________ > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> > > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 2:34:49 PM > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > Hi all, > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 There are SOOOO many factors that determine dosage. Generally about 500mg per Kg is per 3 weeks is what our doctor told us he goes by. Lucas is very stable right now. I am VERY pleased. We actually went back to 6gms a few months ago because his levels were 1300 consistently. He is now doing 5 weekly and his levels are 1100. If your son is not absorbing well in his gut he may be losing some of the gamma globulin before it can work. Also Lucas has been on infusions since he was 3 so he has had a LONG time to get stable. AND He has been mostly well so is not using much of it AND he is not being bombarded with LOTS of bugs since he has been homeschooled the last couple of years and he is right now an only child. So I think all of these factors effect where he is as far as needs. AND each kid is different with what their primary issues are. He was retested at 10 and still did not make any antibodies and his levels were borderline at about 400. Not terrible but with empty function not enough. Hope this helps. YES my things are on the way to Seattle RIGHT NOW!!! I am EXHAUSTED trying to get the rest of my things out the door. AMAZING HOW MUCH STUFF YOU Accumulate in only 3 years!! We will be flying in on Saturday so in the next week or so I would LOVE to get the boys together because Lucas is going to be VERY bored at Grandmas house. BARBIE ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 6:59:07 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi Barb, My son is the Lucas who is 14 who lives in Bothell. I hope your move is going well! Let me know when we can get the boys together. As I understand it from the pharmacist 6 grams per week is not the " correct " dose per his body weight- sounds like your son is heavier and is on the same dose. Do you know why that would be? Is dosage dependent on severity of symptoms overall, or IgG levels? best, Cyndi > > Hi Cyndi, Sounds like this has been a tough road. My son is 14 and is about 150lbs and is doing 6gms per week. He is not on Viva but Gammagard SubQ. He is DOING GREAT! But he has been on infusions since he was 3. First IV then 4 years ago he started SubQ. It takes a little while to build up in the system but for > > us SubQ is fantastic. You do not have the peaks and troughs meaning the fatigue because his level stays constant rather than fluctuating with the Gamma globulin running out in 23days. I would say you need to give it at least 6 months to get him stable. How old is your son? My son has had a few breakthrough infections including pneumonia once but overall his gut issues have subsided, along with his chronic infections and severe allergy issues. I would just stay with it and give it a chance to readjust his system. I know it is hard to see your son so sick but it takes time for it to settle things down. > BARBIE > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __ > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> > groups (DOT) com > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 2:34:49 PM > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > Hi all, > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 There are SOOOO many factors that determine dosage. Generally about 500mg per Kg is per 3 weeks is what our doctor told us he goes by. Lucas is very stable right now. I am VERY pleased. We actually went back to 6gms a few months ago because his levels were 1300 consistently. He is now doing 5 weekly and his levels are 1100. If your son is not absorbing well in his gut he may be losing some of the gamma globulin before it can work. Also Lucas has been on infusions since he was 3 so he has had a LONG time to get stable. AND He has been mostly well so is not using much of it AND he is not being bombarded with LOTS of bugs since he has been homeschooled the last couple of years and he is right now an only child. So I think all of these factors effect where he is as far as needs. AND each kid is different with what their primary issues are. He was retested at 10 and still did not make any antibodies and his levels were borderline at about 400. Not terrible but with empty function not enough. Hope this helps. YES my things are on the way to Seattle RIGHT NOW!!! I am EXHAUSTED trying to get the rest of my things out the door. AMAZING HOW MUCH STUFF YOU Accumulate in only 3 years!! We will be flying in on Saturday so in the next week or so I would LOVE to get the boys together because Lucas is going to be VERY bored at Grandmas house. BARBIE ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 6:59:07 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi Barb, My son is the Lucas who is 14 who lives in Bothell. I hope your move is going well! Let me know when we can get the boys together. As I understand it from the pharmacist 6 grams per week is not the " correct " dose per his body weight- sounds like your son is heavier and is on the same dose. Do you know why that would be? Is dosage dependent on severity of symptoms overall, or IgG levels? best, Cyndi > > Hi Cyndi, Sounds like this has been a tough road. My son is 14 and is about 150lbs and is doing 6gms per week. He is not on Viva but Gammagard SubQ. He is DOING GREAT! But he has been on infusions since he was 3. First IV then 4 years ago he started SubQ. It takes a little while to build up in the system but for > > us SubQ is fantastic. You do not have the peaks and troughs meaning the fatigue because his level stays constant rather than fluctuating with the Gamma globulin running out in 23days. I would say you need to give it at least 6 months to get him stable. How old is your son? My son has had a few breakthrough infections including pneumonia once but overall his gut issues have subsided, along with his chronic infections and severe allergy issues. I would just stay with it and give it a chance to readjust his system. I know it is hard to see your son so sick but it takes time for it to settle things down. > BARBIE > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __ > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> > groups (DOT) com > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 2:34:49 PM > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > Hi all, > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 There are SOOOO many factors that determine dosage. Generally about 500mg per Kg is per 3 weeks is what our doctor told us he goes by. Lucas is very stable right now. I am VERY pleased. We actually went back to 6gms a few months ago because his levels were 1300 consistently. He is now doing 5 weekly and his levels are 1100. If your son is not absorbing well in his gut he may be losing some of the gamma globulin before it can work. Also Lucas has been on infusions since he was 3 so he has had a LONG time to get stable. AND He has been mostly well so is not using much of it AND he is not being bombarded with LOTS of bugs since he has been homeschooled the last couple of years and he is right now an only child. So I think all of these factors effect where he is as far as needs. AND each kid is different with what their primary issues are. He was retested at 10 and still did not make any antibodies and his levels were borderline at about 400. Not terrible but with empty function not enough. Hope this helps. YES my things are on the way to Seattle RIGHT NOW!!! I am EXHAUSTED trying to get the rest of my things out the door. AMAZING HOW MUCH STUFF YOU Accumulate in only 3 years!! We will be flying in on Saturday so in the next week or so I would LOVE to get the boys together because Lucas is going to be VERY bored at Grandmas house. BARBIE ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 6:59:07 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? Hi Barb, My son is the Lucas who is 14 who lives in Bothell. I hope your move is going well! Let me know when we can get the boys together. As I understand it from the pharmacist 6 grams per week is not the " correct " dose per his body weight- sounds like your son is heavier and is on the same dose. Do you know why that would be? Is dosage dependent on severity of symptoms overall, or IgG levels? best, Cyndi > > Hi Cyndi, Sounds like this has been a tough road. My son is 14 and is about 150lbs and is doing 6gms per week. He is not on Viva but Gammagard SubQ. He is DOING GREAT! But he has been on infusions since he was 3. First IV then 4 years ago he started SubQ. It takes a little while to build up in the system but for > > us SubQ is fantastic. You do not have the peaks and troughs meaning the fatigue because his level stays constant rather than fluctuating with the Gamma globulin running out in 23days. I would say you need to give it at least 6 months to get him stable. How old is your son? My son has had a few breakthrough infections including pneumonia once but overall his gut issues have subsided, along with his chronic infections and severe allergy issues. I would just stay with it and give it a chance to readjust his system. I know it is hard to see your son so sick but it takes time for it to settle things down. > BARBIE > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __ > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> > groups (DOT) com > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 2:34:49 PM > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > Hi all, > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 We gave her Phenergan for years for nausea but recently it has started losing it effect so we give her Zofran now. Unfortunately Macey is on hospital homebound. She would fight tooth and nail if she had the energy to go back to school. Going to homebound meant having to leave the band and school activities because she didn't have the energy to do them or couldn't stay out of the bathroom long enough to get on the practice field. She has had a bad week pain wise and bathroom trips are up. Her homebound instructor came out yesterday and was only able to keep her at the table for 2 of the 3 hours before she couldn't sit up anymore. She still text messages some with a few friends but I'm not even sure her laptop is charged. It's actually very unnerving how quickly she's gone downhill. I hope her scope Friday shows us what we need to know and we can get the stronger meds started.  Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 7:55:08 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues?  Thanks for sharing your story Ursula. Also thanks for the tips on Miralax, we'll try that. With my son it went the other way-chronic diarreah for all of early childhood that gradually turned to constipation as he got older-now its been constipation, nausea for the last 4 years, even with IG therapy, although he has started growing and gaining weight on IG, and the nausea has mostly gone away. I'm so sorry to hear of Macey's difficulties. I know how difficult the pain and fatigue can be. I hope she is enjoying homeschooling and has lots of relationships online! > > > > the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. > > > > We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. > > > > I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. > > Ursula > > Mom to (17) and Macey (14) > > http://www.caringbr idge.org/ visit/maceyholle man > > > > > > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __ > > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@> > > groups (DOT) com > > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM > > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > > > > > Hi all, > > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > > > Thanks, > > Cyndi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 We gave her Phenergan for years for nausea but recently it has started losing it effect so we give her Zofran now. Unfortunately Macey is on hospital homebound. She would fight tooth and nail if she had the energy to go back to school. Going to homebound meant having to leave the band and school activities because she didn't have the energy to do them or couldn't stay out of the bathroom long enough to get on the practice field. She has had a bad week pain wise and bathroom trips are up. Her homebound instructor came out yesterday and was only able to keep her at the table for 2 of the 3 hours before she couldn't sit up anymore. She still text messages some with a few friends but I'm not even sure her laptop is charged. It's actually very unnerving how quickly she's gone downhill. I hope her scope Friday shows us what we need to know and we can get the stronger meds started.  Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 7:55:08 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues?  Thanks for sharing your story Ursula. Also thanks for the tips on Miralax, we'll try that. With my son it went the other way-chronic diarreah for all of early childhood that gradually turned to constipation as he got older-now its been constipation, nausea for the last 4 years, even with IG therapy, although he has started growing and gaining weight on IG, and the nausea has mostly gone away. I'm so sorry to hear of Macey's difficulties. I know how difficult the pain and fatigue can be. I hope she is enjoying homeschooling and has lots of relationships online! > > > > the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. > > > > We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. > > > > I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. > > Ursula > > Mom to (17) and Macey (14) > > http://www.caringbr idge.org/ visit/maceyholle man > > > > > > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __ > > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@> > > groups (DOT) com > > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM > > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > > > > > Hi all, > > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > > > Thanks, > > Cyndi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 8, 2009 Report Share Posted December 8, 2009 We gave her Phenergan for years for nausea but recently it has started losing it effect so we give her Zofran now. Unfortunately Macey is on hospital homebound. She would fight tooth and nail if she had the energy to go back to school. Going to homebound meant having to leave the band and school activities because she didn't have the energy to do them or couldn't stay out of the bathroom long enough to get on the practice field. She has had a bad week pain wise and bathroom trips are up. Her homebound instructor came out yesterday and was only able to keep her at the table for 2 of the 3 hours before she couldn't sit up anymore. She still text messages some with a few friends but I'm not even sure her laptop is charged. It's actually very unnerving how quickly she's gone downhill. I hope her scope Friday shows us what we need to know and we can get the stronger meds started.  Ursula Mom to (17) and Macey (14) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maceyholleman ________________________________ From: CYNDITK <cyndi@...> Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 7:55:08 PM Subject: Re: Feedback on current status/ mito issues?  Thanks for sharing your story Ursula. Also thanks for the tips on Miralax, we'll try that. With my son it went the other way-chronic diarreah for all of early childhood that gradually turned to constipation as he got older-now its been constipation, nausea for the last 4 years, even with IG therapy, although he has started growing and gaining weight on IG, and the nausea has mostly gone away. I'm so sorry to hear of Macey's difficulties. I know how difficult the pain and fatigue can be. I hope she is enjoying homeschooling and has lots of relationships online! > > > > the viva does take awhile because basically you're trickling in a little each week. My daughter is 14, 106 lbs and takes 8 gms per week. She's been on it 4 years and carries a trough around 1100. She is on hospital homebound due to fatigue and abdominal pain from her IBD so we're not the best judge there. But before her IBD flare she marched in the band earlier this year and went to school full time with only 2 days absent. > > > > We're finding out in the last couple of weeks how much her gut relates to her body. She was on Lactulose, Senokot, Mag Citrate an Go Lytely for years. She has been on Miralax off and on for the last 4 years or so and had a cecostomy tube for constipation when she was younger. Seems strange to be on the other end of the stooling pattern now. > > > > I'd give the viva up to 6 months to get the system completely jacked up and supplemented. Also try and keep him cleaned out with the Miralax for a week or so and not just routinely going. It always made a world of difference with Macey when she felt not quite so full and weighted down. > > Ursula > > Mom to (17) and Macey (14) > > http://www.caringbr idge.org/ visit/maceyholle man > > > > > > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __ > > From: CYNDITK <cyndi@> > > groups (DOT) com > > Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 3:34:49 PM > > Subject: Feedback on current status/ mito issues? > > > > > > > > Hi all, > > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > > > Thanks, > > Cyndi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 9, 2009 Report Share Posted December 9, 2009 Mito is usually not a self referral....another specialist like Metabolics or Neurology would do the referring.( although other specialists can)... Lab work, symptoms, would be indicative of a visit to Clevland Clinic with Dr Cohen.. Good Luck.. > > > Hi all, > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 9, 2009 Report Share Posted December 9, 2009 Mito is usually not a self referral....another specialist like Metabolics or Neurology would do the referring.( although other specialists can)... Lab work, symptoms, would be indicative of a visit to Clevland Clinic with Dr Cohen.. Good Luck.. > > > Hi all, > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 10, 2009 Report Share Posted December 10, 2009 I'm not sure I understand your question about mito. What is going on that makes you think mito? Everything you described sounds like how a lot of the families on here with PID describe their kids before being on Ig therapy for a while. I was trying to figure out if I was missing something else. While I've never heard of " screening " for mito, there are some initial testing that can be done without traveling somewhere. Having all of that be normal doesn't rule out mito. Pursuing a diagnosis is a LONG process and there are no guarantees. My kids fit the mito criteria (They have low carnitine, low coQ10, hypotonia affecting skeletal muscles and respiratory muscles, decreased respiratory drive, liver disease, etc - only one has seizures since you mentioned that - but not everyone with mito looks like this because there is so much variability. I believe they say that having multi-system involvement is one clue. Their respiratory issues, which require BIPAP ventilation for the older 2 and Meredith is on oxygen, are a common finding with mito as is liver disease. Immune deficiency has been seen in some mito kids.) and are being treated as though they do have mito. will be having a muscle biopsy the first of the year so we can be definitive but even those have a 30% false negative rate so our doctors have said they believe that all 3 have mito but if we could prove it, it would help with insurance coverage, etc down the road but won't change the treatment plan we already have in place. Mom to 4, 3 with mito causing secondary ID in 2 (baby is only 4 months and still getting breastmilk so we will watch her closely as she gets older) > > > Hi all, > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 10, 2009 Report Share Posted December 10, 2009 I'm not sure I understand your question about mito. What is going on that makes you think mito? Everything you described sounds like how a lot of the families on here with PID describe their kids before being on Ig therapy for a while. I was trying to figure out if I was missing something else. While I've never heard of " screening " for mito, there are some initial testing that can be done without traveling somewhere. Having all of that be normal doesn't rule out mito. Pursuing a diagnosis is a LONG process and there are no guarantees. My kids fit the mito criteria (They have low carnitine, low coQ10, hypotonia affecting skeletal muscles and respiratory muscles, decreased respiratory drive, liver disease, etc - only one has seizures since you mentioned that - but not everyone with mito looks like this because there is so much variability. I believe they say that having multi-system involvement is one clue. Their respiratory issues, which require BIPAP ventilation for the older 2 and Meredith is on oxygen, are a common finding with mito as is liver disease. Immune deficiency has been seen in some mito kids.) and are being treated as though they do have mito. will be having a muscle biopsy the first of the year so we can be definitive but even those have a 30% false negative rate so our doctors have said they believe that all 3 have mito but if we could prove it, it would help with insurance coverage, etc down the road but won't change the treatment plan we already have in place. Mom to 4, 3 with mito causing secondary ID in 2 (baby is only 4 months and still getting breastmilk so we will watch her closely as she gets older) > > > Hi all, > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month where he was fully functional. > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off since he got off the antibiotics. > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly for 120lb. > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > Thanks, > Cyndi > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 11, 2009 Report Share Posted December 11, 2009 Hi , His carnitine is normal and he does not have any other labwork which would indicate mito. Why I consider it at all is that he has serious gut issues, chronic fatigue, and physical weakness. He has been on IG for 1 year four months and is still not anywhere near stable. Yes this is the experience of others on this list, and also many others are stable and able to attend activities regularly. My son has regular periods- we call them crashes- where he does not get out of the house for weeks at a time because he feels tired and his gut freezes up. And then there are some weeks where he functions well and can go out. I know that there are other issues going on with him besides PIDD- most likely it's his gut causing the fatigue, but why is his gut so compromised? Anyhow, I don't know- I am looking for answers. My son's weakness does not affect his respiratory function at all, but his gut is affected- he has chronic constipation which seems to be a motility issue. Thanks for the input. best, Cyndi > > > > > > Hi all, > > > > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, > just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic > fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe > food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not > well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days > afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month > where he was fully functional. > > > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after > his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a > " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities > regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. > Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in > the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he > hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off > since he got off the antibiotics. > > > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made > it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also > was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about > it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly > for 120lb. > > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it > take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not > have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to > Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > > > Thanks, > > Cyndi > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 11, 2009 Report Share Posted December 11, 2009 This is all also common with kids with PID, my son has never attended schoool and we actually isolate for 6 months of the year.. no activitiy. Constipation... was horrible and I know alot of other moms on this board struggle with this issue as well. We have been officially dx for a number of years with Mito ( complex 1, LCHAD, and CPEO another variant of Mito.... The issues with fatigue for the first few years were horrible with trying to get the right product, dosing, and let his body rest and restore..all immune related.. Mito was dx after our PID, which was dx at 18 months .... 3 organ systems are a indication..as well as a zillion other things.. It is a dx,, that another doctor will suspect.. and then do some metabolic studies.. skin biopsy sometimes.. EMG.. It is a lOOONNG process.. best of luck.. hope you do not have to go down that road. Kathleen > > > > > > > > > Hi all, > > > > > > > > > My son is 14, diagnosed with IgG subclass deficiency 2 and 4 and low IgA, > > just started on Vivaglobin. He has suffered from chronic infections, chronic > > fatigue, and recurrent GI issues including nausea, constipation, and severe > > food intolerance. We did IVIG for 1 year, and he did well on Privigen, not > > well on Gamunex. On Privigen he had side effects from the IVIG for 3-4 days > > afterward-severe fatigue, headaches. He had about 2 1/2-3 weeks per month > > where he was fully functional. > > > > > > We've done Viva for 1 month now. He has 1-2 days of fatigue right after > > his infusion. Is this typical? He still is by no means able to live a > > " normal " life- he does not have the energy to attend school and activities > > regularly due to some issue or other-his gut, feeling tired/lousy, headache. > > Between the time we were switching from IVIG to Viva he got an infection- in > > the 1 week he was off therapy. Then he had to go on antibiotics, and he > > hasn't been doing well since. He's been tired and had nausea on and off > > since he got off the antibiotics. > > > > > > The best 2 months we had were when he was on Privigen and Miralax- he made > > it through that whole time with high energy and few gut problems. > > > > > > We switched to Viva because Dr suggested it to help with fatigue. I also > > was excited about doing it because of what I heard from other parents about > > it helping fatigue. I have been told that his initial dose is low- 6g weekly > > for 120lb. > > > Could that be a reason he doesn't seem to be responding well? Or does it > > take a while to get up to speed with the Viva? > > > > > > I have wondered about Mito issues due to his chronic fatigue- he does not > > have seizures and I am unsure if it would be helpful to have to travel to > > Cleveland Clinic to get screened for mito. > > > > > > > > > Does anyone have thoughts on this? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > Cyndi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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