Should I get a flu shot? - Lymphomas Message Board

singer78 · 11-10-2007, 11:11 AM

Hi,
I just finished my treatment for Hodgkin's, as a lot of you know.
My onc scheduled a flu shot for next week, but I'm starting to think, maybe I should wait until I get a little stronger.
They say the radiation stays in you, for up to 2 weeks.
I certainly don't want anything to compromise my health--I've come this far.
He did tell me I'd "get a little sick," with the flu shot, so I'm thinking I should wait.
The flu isn't even around, yet, in this area. I haven't heard of anyone getting it, so far.
Thoughts anyone?
Thanx ...and Happy Weekend.
S.

LINDA505 · 11-10-2007, 05:22 PM

Dear Singer,
I am sure that is why he wants you to have one. The minor side effects from having a flu shot is nothing compared to getting the flu. Most people do not even have any side effects but tenderness at the site of injection.

Take care and have a nice week-end.

Love
Linda

singer78 · 11-10-2007, 05:58 PM

Thank you so much, Linda.
I'm always glad to hear from you.
I guess I'll keep my appt.
I'm concerned, mostly, because my immune system has got to be pretty whacked right now.

How are you doing?--and how is Don? I'm always praying for good news about him & also pray for strength for you.

I'm having a pretty major depression today. It seems to happen to me on weekends.
I suppose that's because I was always busy on the weekends & looked forward to them, especially when I traveled.
I wish I would've made a list of questions for my onc last Thursday, but I didn't.
Now, I'm deluged with questions. This "feeling" that comes & goes in my throat upsets me. I have absolutely no energy today. I'm sorry for complaining. You'd think I'd be extrememly happy....I, by all rights, should be.
I'm alive....& have a pretty good prognosis.
I think I may address antidepressants with one of my doctors this week again. I can't take this lethargy & depressed feeling.

Do you happen to know how long radiation stays in one's body? I think I heard somewhere, up to 2 weeks. I'm not going online. I always get scared.
I'm waiting for the big "surge" of energy....but, I don't think it's going to happen for awhile.

Anyway, thank you for responding.
It always helps to know someone's out there.
love, S.

gishy · 11-19-2007, 12:05 PM

Hiello Singer - hope this message find you well and hope you have had your flu jab.

I had mine throughout the years of treatment and since - no problems.

Sharon x

singer78 · 11-19-2007, 05:20 PM

Hi There!!
I was thinking about you the other day, wondering how your macaw's are.

I actually cancelled my flu shot today---I had some other "issues" going on. I'll get it next week.

I'm feeling pretty good today. I've been extremely anxious-ridden over my scans coming up...I'm coping as best I can. I need to be more positive. I was doing a bit of "sinking" the last few days... I'm coming out of it. I just pray I can stay here!

How're you doing?
XO