Thanks Read,
I just got back and I have some news. The doctor I saw at the ER said I am definitely having an allergic reaction. I am told to stop the Enbrel immediately until I can discuss it with my rheumy. He said my Rheumy should find me something else to take.
I got a shot in each cheek, one for benadryl and one for a steroid. I can't remember the name of it though. I also have a new temporary prescription for Medrol (pak) 4mg and benadryl capsules 25mg which might be the same steroid as the shot, I think. They didn't keep me there more than an hour because it has already been 6 days since my last injection of Enbrel. He said I was lucky that I suspected something was wrong and decided to see them before my next injection though.
I'm feeling better now as far as breathing and itching goes, except now the benedryl is making me too sleepy and it caused me to date the discharge papers as 07/11/03. The nurse got a chuckle out of it, when I told her I was too tired to remember the date.
My blood pressure was around 157/98 and pulse was about 109. I'm not sure if this could be a part of the reactions though.
Time for me to find a snack then lay down. Also, Brenda was told to let me sleep in the recliner too because I told them my breathing improves while sitting up during these episodes, so I'm going to put my things over by the recliner.
Take care,
James
