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← Return to COVID vaccines and neuropathy
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Hello @amybeau
I began having peripheral neuropathy symptoms late last fall. I had the first Pfizer vaccine in February, my symptoms increased significantly. They reduced some, so I had the second (I’m immunocompromised due to meds for a liver transplant I had a year ago, so it’s important I’m protected). After the second vaccine, in early March, the symptoms worsened again, even more so, and for the most part continue to worsen.
I saw a neurologist later in March who thought my neuropathy was caused by Sjogren’s Syndrome, as I have two other autoimmune diseases that can be ancillary to Sjogren’s. Labs confirmed this. He also said he wasn’t surprised at my increase in neuropathy as the vaccines are designed to boost an immune response.
I began taking R-ALA/S-ALA, ALCAR, Complete Omegas with GLA, and I take 300 mgs Gabapentin. I’m hoping these will eventually. I’m looking for a competent rheumatologist who knows something about systemic Sjogren’s and I see a neuromuscular MD in two weeks.
Are you seeing a doctor for your autoimmune diseases? @johnbishop pointed you to a good discussion. I’ve found the other PN discussions very informative as well. I knew nothing about neuropathy before joining Connect. Best wishes in your search for a treatment.
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Thank you so much for your response. I am so sorry you are having this experience but it does seem like with your underlying issues foraging ahead with the second vaccine was necessary.
I knew nothing about neuropathy before this either! I am in another support group as well but I am thankful for this focused space and have found a lot of helpful information. I finally posted the other day because I had a backslide and was discouraged that no one seems to be getting better so I thought I would ask.
I am not seeing a rheumatologist at this time. I had a positive autoimmune titer in my bloodwork in 2020, that was negative 6 months later because of this 3 rheumatologists denied me early on (my PCP referred me right away after issues started with the vaccine). My neurologist has basically sent me on my way saying, “give it time.” Even after being admitted to the hospital. He did refer me to the NeuroCovid clinic at Yale and I have an appointment in March, 2022, but I am praying I am improved my then.
I am basically managing all of my symptoms with a Naturopath and a Chiropractic/Functional Neurologist, who feels this should be treated as autoimmune. I have considered seeing an allergist/immunologist as I have some new symptoms which seem to be histamine related.
I hope you see continued healing and find a rheumatologist that provides you with a healthful way forward. Best wishes to you also!!