I am afraid to have my injection treatment done

Here is My Question:
I am afraid to have my injection treatment done. I am struggling physically and emotionally, and don't feel like my body can take a 6 hour procedure (prolonged sitting is difficult for me). I am also very concerned about side effects and my ability to return to work right after the treatment. I am already dealing with weakness and fatigue that is limiting my current work schedule. Should I prolong getting the treatment done until a time where I feel better?

Answer:
It is impossible to answer your question without further details and knowing your case. Here is what I can say:

1. It is important with any illness  to try to avoid letting fear interfere with decision making. When I read your question, the stress and anxiety you are experiencing, which is the same thing as fear, is almost palpable. All of us need support to make important decisions. Hopefully your MS team is able to provide this support, if your family and close friends are not supportive.
2. You must be comfortable with a decision and know the alternatives. This will help eliminate the fear.

I assume in your message you are talking about an Ocrevus infusion. Ask yourself and your health team the following questions:

-Why do I need the treatment now? Can I change the infusion date to a more convenient time?
-WHy do I need 6 hours of infusion time? Can I take half the dose (300 mg) with a shorter infusion?
-What can you do differently with this infusion to limit the side effects experienced during the last infusion?
-Are there alternative treatments we have not discussed and what are their risks and side effects?

I find if you ask the right questions and find someone who can provide the answers, it allays many of your fears and anxieties.

Good luck to you.

(Rip) Kinkel MD
Professor of Clinical Neurosciences
Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Program
Clinical Neurosciences Director
University of California San Diego