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Primary biliary cirrhosis: Finding it hard to eat
Hi, I was diagnosed with PBC about eight years ago, cirrhosis stage 4, I have a lot of fatigue and anxiety issues, hard to fall asleep, hardly can eat much without pain in my stomach, I keep myself busy and work three days a week, I am 72 years old, I have lost some of my teeth and that's another reason I can't eat well, any comments?
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@kingstoncat - I have PBC and Autoimmune Hepatitis. I ended up cirrhosis and HCC. I was able to get a liver transplant almost 2 years ago. It’s always hard for me to tell what side effect is from what condition. I am always fatigued. My doctor wrote a letter regarding 4 dental cleanings a year because of my autoimmune disorders so that I can have 4 cleanings a year. I don’t have to pay extra. My dentist just scans the letter to the insurance company. It has helped my teeth a lot. I have lost a few molars, but I have a partial and that has helped a lot. I haven’t really had stomach issues. After my transplant I could it eat because the thought of food made my stomach turn. My transplant doctor okayed the use a cbd/thc gummie. That really helped. I just ate 1/2 at night. After one month my appetite was back. I think fatigue is always going to be a part of it. I work too, I think that helps a lot.
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5 Reactions@kingstoncat
I’m very sorry about your ongoing health struggles. I had undiagnosed PBC, which was finally diagnosed when I had stage 3 liver disease. I was also fortunate to receive a liver transplant.
I agree with @ssapp1, I’d recommend a THC gummy. You can get a low dose. If it’s not legal in your state, you can get a medical prescription. If you’re not already on Gabapentin, I’d also recommend you speak with your doctor about a prescription for it as well. When I had liver disease, I took both and it helped my appetite, reduced anxiety/depression, and helped me relax and sleep.
I’d also recommend protein shakes. I take a product called Orgain. It’s got vitamins as well as protein. I mix it with fortified nondairy milk as it’s easier on my stomach than dairy. This will help you at least get protein and vitamins into your body.
Hang in there, I know it’s a struggle…
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3 ReactionsThank you both so very much! Now a new problem the last abdominal sonogram shows possible bile stones, Thursday I am going to have a test to check the bile ducts for stones.
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2 Reactions@kingstoncat
Let us know what it reveals. Be good to your liver!
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