There are many reasons why a person may be immunocompromised. For some, it’s due to underlying health conditions, certain medications, or stressful life events that may have weakened their immune system. Regardless of the circumstances, having a weakened immune system leaves a person at a higher risk of contracting viruses, infections, and other serious illnesses. But, what exactly does it mean when a person suffers from primary immunodeficiency?
What is Primary Immunodeficiency?
The term primary immunodeficiency — or primary immune disorder — refers to when a person is born with a weakened immune system. This type of immunodeficiency can range from mild to severe. In the former cases, it can go undetected for years. In the most severe cases, a doctor is able to diagnose it while a baby is still a newborn. Signs that a person may be suffering from primary immunodeficiency include delayed growth, digestive problems, anemia, autoimmune disorders (such as lupus or type 1 diabetes), or frequent illnesses and infections — particularly bronchitis, pneumonia, sinus and/or ear infections.
Infusion Therapy for Primary Immunodeficiency
Infusion therapy provides a viable treatment option for patients for whom an underlying medical condition makes it difficult or impossible to swallow oral medications. It also offers an alternative for people who have failed to obtain relief from oral drugs. And, since the medication is injected directly into the bloodstream, patients typically experience alleviated symptoms at a much faster rate.
What to Expect
When you visit any of our Infusion Associates locations, you’ll immediately notice that we strive to make our centers as comfortable as possible — both from a physical and mental standpoint. You’ll first meet with one of our medical professionals, who will discuss details about your treatment, including dosage amount, length of each infusion, possible side effects, and answers for any questions you may have.
You will then be escorted to a treatment room — private ones are available by request. Each infusion is administered while you sit in a cozy reclining chair, and we provide blankets, warm beverages, Wi-Fi, and TV. You can also bring your snacks of choice. Once the infusion therapy starts, you will be monitored by either a doctor or a nurse to ensure that everything goes smoothly.
Infusion Medications for Primary Immunodeficiency
Primary immunodeficiency can be treated with immunoglobulin therapy (IVIg). This type of infusion contains antibodies gathered from the plasma of healthy individuals. Because they are organic, they are considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Immunoglobulin therapy is known by three names:
Side Effects
As with any prescription medication, infusion therapy carries a risk of side effects. These may vary from person to person. The most common ones include:
- Extreme tiredness
- Head or neck pain
- Migraines
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness
- Joint pain
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Loose stools
If Your Doctor Has Recommended Infusion Therapy, Let Infusion Associates Help You
At Infusion Associates, we provide medically-prescribed infusion therapy for patients with chronic conditions in a welcoming and friendly environment. Our team of healthcare professionals is fully committed to making the experience as comfortable as possible for you or your patients. We always inform patients of any potential side effects and answer all their questions before starting treatment. In addition, we have a Registered Pharmacist or Medical Provider on-site to make the process as seamless as possible.
If you would like to refer a patient to us or want to inquire about the treatments we offer, you can contact us by calling us at 616-954-0600 or filling out this form.