On a Biologic? 5 Tips to Follow on Infusion Day!

Whether you are on Remicade, Entyvio, starting Stelara or any other biologic, infusion day can be a bit stressful, especially if you are in the middle of a flare. 

Getting to the Infusion Center itself can be quite the challenge, and when you’re in pain and feeling depleted, it is important to be organized and prepared for the day.

I have been on many infusion treatments throughout my Crohn’s journey and have experienced moments of discomfort during my infusions simply because I didn’t plan ahead. 

So here are some tips I’ve compiled over the years that will help ease your Infusion Days:

1. Eat and pack a snack.

It is imperative that you are well fed before you start your infusion.  You need to have fuel in your body to receive treatment with the most ease—at least this has been my experience.  So make sure you aren’t receiving your infusion on an empty stomach! 

Secondly, bring a snack with you.  Whether it’s an apple, banana, or grain-free crackers, have something with you to eat during your infusion or after on your way home.

2. Hydrate.

This is so important!  Make sure to drink a bottle of water before your infusion.  Not only does this help with the IV process by making your veins nice and plump for the hookup, it also gets your body ready for the infusion itself. 

I highly suggest bringing water with you as well to sip on during the infusion, if not ask your nurse—they should have water available.

3. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a sweater.

You want to be comfortable during your infusion, so dress comfortably.  I usually wear leggings, a comfortable long sleeve and sneakers.  You will be sitting for a while and normally AC is blasting so bring a sweater with you so you don’t get frost bite!  If you tend to get cold easily bring your favorite blanket to snuggle in.

4. Stay busy.

Keep busy during your infusion.  Not only does it make time pass by faster, it eases any anxiety that my come your way.  Bring a book to read, listen to music on your iPhone, watch YouTube videos, play a game, just stay busy. 

I suggest refraining from napping, even though the urge may hit you in the middle of treatment, it’s best to be alert in case you have any reaction to the medication.

5. Bring someone with you.

If you are able, always do Infusion Day with someone by your side.  It’s always nice to have someone with you.  Someone to talk to and to help with the commute to and from the Infusion Center. 

I have done many infusions on my own, but when you have someone by your side the experience is a world’s difference.

And those are my tips! Most importantly: eat and hydrate!

What do you do to help ease the treatment process? I’d love to hear from you.  Comment below!

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