Avoiding the Common Cold

We all have a compromised immune system with Multiple Myeloma.  We have to change the way we live a little.  Same goes with the caregivers.   Whatever my wife contracts I seem to get shortly after.  I open all double doors with my left hand that swing out and use my shoulder to open those that swing in.

I am right handed and unconsciously touch my head, eyes and mouth with my right hand.  I carry a small bottle of sanitizer at all times.  I stay away from crowds and keep my space when I am around small groups.  I boldly ask those I converse with first, "Do you have a cold or flu or recently have had one?"  I excuse my self and move away if they have.  I wash my hands very frequently.  I open doors with a paper towel as often as I can.  I am on guard for any exposure to any kind of germ or bacteria always.  I don't shake hands and politely tell the person why with a smile.  Don't want to appear rude.

I give a lot of credit to my friends and family for staying away and letting us know when they are or have been recently been contagious.  It is hard not to visit my granddaughters and their families, but the sacrifice is worth it in the long run.

I went over 1 1/2 years without a cold or flu after my tandem scts.  I even fought off a cold when my wife caught one in Dec. for a week, but got the first one anyway.  Started antibiotics immediately and kept it to a sinus and throat cold that was mild.

Sounds a little paranoid, I know.  But it works for me.

When I was frequently fighting pneumonia and colds at the lowest point of my mm life, I was being infused with IVIG monthly.  The IVIG built up my system sufficiently and didn't become sick for a year and then only very  mild.

I hope this helps.

Take care.
Eric Vogt
Palm Desert, CA