@deb913

Hi, I am 9 months post SCT for autoimmune condition, and I am going through the same type of ups and downs in my recovery. My fatigue started getting worse at 4 months post-transplant with its worst being around 6-7 months. Even getting up and going to the restroom next to my bedroom was challenging due to extreme fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and palpitations. At 4 months post-transplant I was also diagnosed with heart failure due to transplant related chemotherapy. A combination of Losartan, Metoprolol, and Spironolactone were prescribed. All of these drugs contribute to fatigue and weakness. Walking for 5 to 15 min at a time a couple of times a day was my first step. Diet rich in vitamins B, biotin, and iron was my second step. Also, seeking second opinion with a different cardiologist helped me with getting a list of my medications shorter and doses lower. I was told that post-transplant fatigue may have multiple causes - from anemia due to low iron levels, to deficiency in iron utilization, to arrhythmias caused by chemotherapy, and to system deconditioning due to transplant. Atrial fibrillations, PACs Premature Atrial Contractions, and PVCs Premature Ventricular Contractions are most common types of arrhythmias observed post chemo. I am supposed to stay on medications for 12 months post-transplant. I also use Boost Oxygen inhaler 2-3 time a day to help with tissue hypoxia. After 12 months arrhythmias are supposed to start going away along with fatigue, as my bone marrow will start recovering cells removed by the transplant. Every patient is different, but being reasonable with medications, eating diet rich in iron and vitamins B, and little walking every day should help. For most patients, 12 months is the landmark. The recovery may take another 6-12 months and up to 2 years post-transplant. My doctor asked me to be patient with my recovery process and to "stick it out" by staying home with a caregiver and minimal level of activity until my energy levels get better. Hope, this helps.