about BCG side effects ,

If it's any comfort, my experience may help ease your mind. Years ago I converted on a PPD test (i.e., I had a severe reaction to a skin test for tuberculosis). For this reason, I was very reluctant to undergo BCG treatment. I mean, what if my bladder reacted the way my arm did? My uro sent me to an infectious disease specialist, who found no active TB in my system, and she recommended that I take the BCG treatments at half dose, just to be on the safe side. I have since had 2 treatments with minimal side effects (fatigue & mild headache for a couple of days). 4 more to go, but I am no longer apprehensive.

Hi Susan,
Ok here goes, I think this is one question less you need to worry about. As far as i can tell there is no reason to worry about any allergic reaction to bcg treatment. allergies usually develop after exposure to a substance and as you will not have come into contact with bcg before, you shouldn·t expect any allergic reaction. Hope that puts your mind at rest a little, please let us know how it all goes,
Best wishes, Flamenco

I will try to stay strong . I don't feel strong but I will try . i have a lot of allergies. is there anything in this that could make an allergy act up?
I have so many questions, i'd rather have something else easier to fix.

susant,

I know you have been worried and debating about the bcg...please don't think like that... I believe there are lots of studies that show future outcomes of reoccurrance are higher for those that do not receive bcg. If you don't get the bcg and the cancer comes back stronger...how will you feel that you didn't try everything you could/should have? stay strong!!!
-tate

Susan, there are some people who seem to be resistant to BCG. I read recently that older people immune system isn't as hardy as a younger persons and so BCG might not be as effective. I think this is why BCG is sometimes combined with Interferon as it strengthens the effect of the BCG.
BCG works well for most people it is why and they don't seem to have a method for figuring out who it will work for. So it is the first line treatment for BC. Julie

oh no you mean it might not even work ? :'(