Liver transplant - Let's support each other

Posted by lmctif @lmctif, Oct 29, 2018

What topics do people who are waiting for a liver transplant want to talk about? Who has had a liver transplant and wants to talk about?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Transplants Support Group.

@racing212

Very tired and wore out

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@racing212, Being tired and worn out are symptoms of liver disease. I can remember when I felt so tired and worn out that I wanted to just lie on the couch and not move because I did not have the energy to do anything. Trust me when I say that I know how you must be feeling. If I had a magic wand, I would wave it right now.
Racing212, Are you able to eat anything? Are you remembering to stay hydrated?

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@rosemarya

@racing212, Being tired and worn out are symptoms of liver disease. I can remember when I felt so tired and worn out that I wanted to just lie on the couch and not move because I did not have the energy to do anything. Trust me when I say that I know how you must be feeling. If I had a magic wand, I would wave it right now.
Racing212, Are you able to eat anything? Are you remembering to stay hydrated?

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Yes, the profound tiredness is overwhelming. You have to eat and drink. You do not feel like it but you must. A little bit but frequently. I was amazed at how quickly I started eating after my transplant! What an amazing gift!

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@rosemarya

@sue6175, Welcome to Mayo Connect. I always consider it an honor to meet fellow transplant recipient. I look forward to hearing more about your experience. On Connect, we, the patients are able to support and encourage others who are like ourselves.

I received my liver and kidney transplant at Mayo Rochester in 2009 for PSC (Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis). I joined Connect because I wanted to meet others who were organ transplant recipients. I have not been disappointed because I have gained much information and inspiration everyone who has entered any of our transplant discussion groups.

@sue6175, How did you learn that you needed a transplant? What was it like for you with an RN background?

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Having the medical background was a help. Post transplant meds were a challenge but we got through it!!! My husband was afraid he was going to kill me!!

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@stella25

@kimestes Sounds like you are doing the right things Kim! Keep up the good work. Have you been evaluated & waitlisted for liver transplant?

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I just got a message this morning that my meld score is not high enough. If course they want me to quit smoking and gain more weight and muscle mass. Smoking is going to be the worst to quit by far!

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@kimestes

I just got a message this morning that my meld score is not high enough. If course they want me to quit smoking and gain more weight and muscle mass. Smoking is going to be the worst to quit by far!

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This would be a good time to stop smoking. You would probably eat more and gain weight.
I did not have that bad habit so I am not as sympathetic as others. You can do it!!! Give your body the help it needs to get well.

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@kimestes

I just got a message this morning that my meld score is not high enough. If course they want me to quit smoking and gain more weight and muscle mass. Smoking is going to be the worst to quit by far!

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In addition to quitting smoking, you will need to practice patience as your MELD will dictate when you can receive a transplant. Focus on gaining the weight & continue your exercise program for sure. You already know the benefits from not smoking. Quitting can literally save your life. It may take a while for your MELD score to get you listed & then it can take a while before you get transplanted. Stay strong & stay positive. We are all here to support you & cheer you on!! xoxo

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@kimestes

I just got a message this morning that my meld score is not high enough. If course they want me to quit smoking and gain more weight and muscle mass. Smoking is going to be the worst to quit by far!

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@kimestes, quitting smoking is a challenge that you don't have to face alone. You can join Connect members in these discussions to get encouragement:
- Ways to curb your cravings for nicotine https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/ways-to-curb-your-cravings-for-nicotene/
- Stop smoking panic attacks. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/stop-smoking-panic-attacks/

There is also help from the Truth Initiative® and Mayo Clinic through the BecomeAnEX program https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/smoking-quitting/ It's FREE and proven to work.

We're all here to support you during your milestones and when the going gets tough. No judgement.

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@sue6175

I had a liver transplant 9/2013 at Mayo. Would be willing to share my experiences with others. I am doing well presently and working as an RN part time.

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@sue6175, I add my welcome and encourage you to tell your story here:
- Organ Donation and Transplant: What is Your story? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/organ-donation-and-transplant-what-is-your-story/

What challenges did you experience with post-transplant meds and how did you overcome the problems you experienced? And how's your husband doing LOL?

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@kimestes

I just got a message this morning that my meld score is not high enough. If course they want me to quit smoking and gain more weight and muscle mass. Smoking is going to be the worst to quit by far!

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@kimestes, I just want to drop in and let you know that I am thinking about you. I don't remember if you have any follow up appointments, but I know that life can be complicated and worrisome when living with a liver condition.

When you get a free moment, would you drop in and let me know how you are doing with your effort to add additional weight and to increase your muscle mass? What is something that is helping you to maintain your effort to do this?

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