Brenda Sadler
After experiencing severe weakness in my lower extremities for several years, I sought out a diagnosis for my continuing decline after feeling that my mobility issues were impacting my lifestyle.
My early symptoms were: difficulty climbing stairs, getting up from the floor, being unable to get up from a stooped position, and frequently falling (due to foot drop).
While misdiagnosed during my first neurological exam, I was offered the option of a second opinion which I received at Duke in Durham, NC. After numerous labs, exams and an extensive nerve conduction study, I was diagnosed with CIDP. My reflexes were nonexistent until receiving my first IVIG treatment in 2008.
I experienced severe headaches with infusions that were eventually eliminated by reducing my infusion rate. Over time, my infusion frequently has increased but I continue to respond favorably to IVIG. I am currently receiving treatment every four weeks. If treated less frequently, the weakness returns and significantly reduces my mobility. After 16 years I am still walking well and maintain a healthy lifestyle. I do still have difficulty getting up from the floor or climbing a flight of steps, but IVIG has been a miracle for me. I have no doubt that I would be wheelchair bound if not for this treatment.
