9 replies to this topic

[CMLSurvivor]

Has anyone discovered if they have developed new allegeries to things they were never allergic to since taking Gleevec?  I seem to have developed an allergy to my lovely basset hound dogs. I am now on Clariten, which by the way, seems to also have helped the big "D".

[CallMeLucky]

My allergies changed, for the most part I had a lot of seasonal allergies that have gone away significantly.  When I told people (Dr. included) they thought I was nuts.  Then I went to an ENT who said leukemia can affect allergies.  So in my case I guess I got lucky that they have subsided quite a bit.  Of course I would gladly take them back with my Nasonex in place of my CML and Gleevec 

[Fas]

My allergies got much worst after starting Gleevec.  Not all at once, but gradually over the years I went from having mild seasonal allergies to year round allergies of varying levels.  I also developed sensitivities to smells and odors that never bother me before.  Have not used a scented candle or wore cologne in years, and have changed over all my cleaning and laundry products.  Using a Neti pot really helps me manage my sinus issues. 

Take care,

Fran

[GerryL]

React more to insect stings and bites now.

[Susan61]

I have suffered with allergies, even before my Start with Gleevec.  They get so bad that it goes into my chest which creates a upper respiratory problem.  I have been sick now for a few weeks, which started with the nasal congestion that goes into the ears, and the constant drip into the throat..  I was told many years ago by a old doctor to use Saline Solution.  He said I do not care if you have to squirt it up your nose 100 times a day, it will help it from going into Bronchitis Etc.  I did not listen to him, but now I am doing it.  It really helps.  Cheaper than all the other medications also.

[CMLSurvivor]

Thank you all!! I am glad I am not the only one. Not that I want you guys to have allergies, I just mean that I don't feel crazy!

[Tedsey]

Yes.  Flour.  I love to bake and now sneeze uncontrollably whenever I am around the stuff.  I had a bad fall this year, but this was supposed to be a bad year anyway.  I don't recall being bothered too badly last year.  So, I guess that is the same as before CML. 

Teds

[Happycat]

Nope, no change for me, and I was tested!  My allergist made me get retested before he'd let me start taking allergy shots after being dx'd with CML.  So I had about 2-3 months off between starting Gleevec and being tested.  For me, I had no changes compared to where I was after the prior year's testing.  Allergic to same stuff, and the level of reaction was either the same or had improved.  (You would expect this if taking allergy shots.  That's the point, builds up your immunity to the allergen.)

I did notice in the fall that my allergies were really, really bad when we first turned on the furnace.  That's normal since it stirs up dust in the system, but it was soo  bad, for both me and my asthmatic dd, and lasted long enough that I considered getting the vents cleaned.  However, the effects subsided a few weeks later, so I think the filter must have pulled most of it out of the system. 

Traci

[Susan61]

HI:  This has been the topic of conversation lately in my family regarding allergies.  I did get my vents cleaned out professionally, and it did make a difference.  Could not believe what he pulled out with the heavy duty machine.  Just vacuuming your vents is not enough.  I had mine done in the Spring, because we had gotten a odor when we turned on the A/C.  I am so diligent about changing my air filter on my furnace every 6 weeks.  When the service guy comes , he says he already knows that I have a clean filter in there.

    We have oil heat, and it can be a real pain.  I do feel its warmer though compared to my friends homes with Gas Heat.

   Allergies can cause a multitude of problems, and some people do not realize how serious it can get.

[Happycat]

Susan,

Lol, the guy found cookies and melted crayons in mine!  The last time I had the hvac system professionally cleaned was about 5-6 yrs ago when my dd was dx'd with dust allergies, too.  Since we have two air handlers for upstairs and downstairs, they use it as an excuse to soak us for a whole lot more.  (Price practically doubles!  I think last time it cost me around $400-500.)

Sigh, I know I should buckle down and just pay for it.  I'm sure after this long, we are due.  And I do know we will all feel better. 

Traci