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Cirrhosis of the Liver: What to expect when waiting for a transplant?
Hello - This is my first time to do this; however, I'm looking for some possible advice. I am 54 and have always been very healthy. I started feeling bad back at the end of May when I decided to go to an Urgent Care center to be looked at. They took blood and when I received the results, it said that my Liver levels were in critical state and to go see a Dr. I did. They took more blood, did an Ultra Sound (which was normal), did a CT scan and did a Biopsy. The results: Stage 4 cirrhosis of the Liver. They have no explanation as to how I got it. I don't drink, it's not hereditary and I'm not over weight. It's now November. They referred me down to a larger University Hospital to see a better specialist; however, I cannot get in until Dec. 8th! I am scared! How long can I last waiting to be seen? What should I do in the mean time? I did some reading and I have cut almost everything out of my diet and with that, I am feeling a whole lot better but I know I still need a Transplant and need to get in. I'm (and my husband & family) are going crazy waiting. Would really appreciate and and all help. Thank you!
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I found Mayo Jacksonville doing online research, sent fax records to get an appointment. It took a few months to get in, but I am so glad I did. My doc does regular screenings for liver cancer and blood work as well as other tests. When I first got there I was shocked to find out I was a transplant candidate. Three years later, I am on the transplant list and waiting to see what my doctors say about going active. I did have a tumor that was treated with ablation that reached the 2cm mark. They watched that until it got to that size, then treated so I would qualify for exception points. Too much information here. You are early yet. Try to get to a reputable transplant center of your choice, get an appointment, and your journey will take its own path. Everyone is different. Best of luck to you.
I know the feeling. You are in good company here. So glad my experience can help someone else. I have been on the list with exception points since March 2023. I am inactive right now waiting for the best time to go active based on my doctors’ advice.
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I am still alive after a liver transplant and have been for the past 4 1/2 years.
Liver diseases do not have any symptoms and appear unexpectedly.
In my instance, it appeared during my annual physical exam, and the timing was perfect for the diagnosis.
When a defect is discovered, the only option according to hospital doctors is a transplant.
During the early stages of cirrhosis, one may feel OK, but as time passes, the face may become jaundiced and fluid may accumulate in the stomach.
This spells disaster. There is no other option but to travel to a facility that does liver transplants and begin the treatment process.
A transplant procedure could be difficult.
Doctors decide when it is appropriate to do a transplant.
They must also find someone with the appropriate blood group, weight, and match for the transplant to be effective.
Assuming your Meld scores are in the range of 28, this will take at least 8 months after you are placed on the waiting list.
So, once you realize you need assistance, don't lose time.
Please go to the hospital right away and begin your therapy.
You only get one chance at life; with a donated liver, you will have two.
God Bless