Good morning Mike,

I’m sorry you had the varices experience already. I had mine just two months after I was diagnosed. First one at my office, second at home. Almost died and spent a total of three weeks in ICU. If you don’t have a blood pressure monitor, it would be a good investment. And, be aware of indications of a drop in blood pressure…which I guess you unfortunately discovered like I did. The second time mine burst, I turned white and almost fainted, but didn’t vomit blood like the first time.

The medications are life saving of course, but certainly have side effects like many medications. I think each of us has their own experience of adjusting to the meds. Working with my transplant team I’ve been able to reduce mine. I still have some effects, but these are also magnified by my autoimmune diseases.

There’s a great Mayo Connect blog for transplant recipients you might check out-
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/transplant/

Here’s a couple that specifically discuss medications:
Transplant Medications: Everything You Need to Know https://connect.mayoclinic.org/newsfeed-post/transplant-medications-everything-you-need-to-know/

– Transplant Medications 101: Q&A https://connect.mayoclinic.org/newsfeed-post/transplant-medications-101-qa/

I wrote this one recently. For me, I have found that adjusting my diet works well to help reduce at least some of the impacts of the medications
- What's On My Plate - A Transplant Recipient Perspective
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/transplant/newsfeed-post/whats-on-my-plate-a-transplant-recipient-perspective/

My best, Athena

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