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3 weeks post liver transplant: when will I feel better?
I had a liver transplant 3 weeks ago because of an autoimmune disease. I don't feel like myself right now. My face is all puffy and swollen which I assume is from the high doses of steroids. I've always been a thinner person but now I feel so fat and that is weighing on me mentally. My legs are still swollen. If I keep them down for even a short time, they become heavy and make it hard to walk. Everyone keeps telling me to be patient but right now nothing feels like it'll get better. I guess I just stupidly assumed things would bounce right back and that frustrates me. Im so miserable and even becoming more depressed. I tell people that and they make you feel guilty for feeling depressed. I guess I'm just looking to talk to people who actually been thru a similar experience. I would like to know how things went for you. Did you have bad side effects to the medicines? Did you ever get depressed after? Do things actually ever go back to normal again? As far as swelling and water retention. When they lowered your steroids did you lose weight and puffy ness in ur face?
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Its been a slow process with good and bad days. I've been struggling mentally dealing with everything. I have PBC with overlapping autoimmune hepatitis. Thank you for reaching out.
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3 Reactions@msfins, it’s now 5 weeks post transplant for you, if I’ve calculated correctly. How are you doing?
@athenalee also had a liver transplant related to an autoimmune condition. May I ask what autoimmune condition you had/have?
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1 ReactionRemember, you are only 3 weeks out. I know we all hope that after the transplant we will be all better. It takes time, be patient with yourself. Talk to your transplant team, tell them how you feel physically and mentally. Your body is going through all sorts of things to heal itself. Maybe a change in medicine or a lower dose will help. Sometimes it takes an antidepressant to help clear your head. It doesn’t mean you will have to take it forever. Sit outside for awhile, take naps, don’t compare yourself to others, recover at your own pace. In time this will all pass and you will feel better and stronger. One day, you’ll realize you don’t remember those first few months of recovery - that’s because you are living your life!
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13 ReactionsHi msfins...I'm so sorry for what you're going thru, but ecstaticly happy for your transplant. Remember you didn't get sick quickly, the recovery won't happen quickly but you've been given a miracle, the gift of life ...a liver transplant. I'm 27 months post liver transplant and all for me is very good. Every transplant patient is different. Don't beat yourself up for the way you're feeling. It's an incredible journey you are on. My best advise is to stay in touch with your post transplant team...they are there to help you, and stay with a support group...nothing better than talking with someone whose already walked in your shoes. Blessed wishes to you!💚💚💚
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13 Reactions