IMPORTANT DO'S AND DON'TS AFTER KIDNEY TRANSPLANT: DR VINOD KUMAR

Patients suffering due to end-stage kidney disease can be relieved with an optimum measure called Kidney Transplant. Dialysis is another preferred option that has its own pros and cons. However, all problems can’t be escaped through a kidney transplant. Though, it is plausible that the quality of life becomes much better through kidney transplant as compared to dialysis. After the transplantation, the patient needs to be more responsible. Here are some dos and don’ts.

During the initial stage after transplantation, it is suggested to take plenty of oral fluids. Take boiled and cooled water. Grapefruit and grapefruit juices, pomegranate, and pomegranate juices must be avoided due to their high possibility of interacting with the anti-rejection treatment.

Take anti-rejection medications (immunosuppressive drugs) at the appropriate dose and at an appropriate time as prescribed by the doctor. Keep alarms or reminders on your mobile phone so that you will not skip any dose. Non-compliance with medicines can trigger rejection. If you miss a dose, please take a tablet immediately when you remember it.

Certain antibiotics also interact with the anti-rejection treatment. Take the opinion of the treating nephrologist before taking it. Avoid NSAIDs (painkillers) and other nephrotoxic medications (medicines that can damage the kidneys). Always consult a nephrologist before taking any new medicine.

Immunosuppressive medications are given to prevent the rejection of the transplanted organ. If you miss a dose, it can lead to rejection. At the same time, these medicines reduce your body’s immunity and thereby increase the risk of infection. Strict adherence to infection control practices is of utmost importance. Finding the right balance between these two factors determines the success of a transplant.

Freshly prepared home-cooked meals should be preferred. Non-vegetarians must be cautious as meat, fish, etc., must be properly cooked before consumption. As the appetite increases after the transplantation, following a healthy diet is crucial to avoid the risk of weight gain, diabetes, and high cholesterol caused by simultaneous medicine usage.

Foods that are rich in fruits, vegetables, fibre, whole grains, lean meats, poultry, and fish should be consumed. Reduce salt intake, reduce fatty foods, and a high carbohydrate diet. Half-cooked meat and eating food from outside or getting food parcels from outside and consuming it must be highly avoided.

Regular exercise for 30 to 45 minutes a day for at least 5 days a week (total of 150 minutes a week). Brisk walking, running, cycling, and swimming can be considered. And, avoid lifting heavy weights for at least one month after kidney transplantation surgery.

Avoid too many visitors during the initial days after surgery as there is an increased risk of infection. In our country, it is a common practice for friends, relatives, and neighbours to pay a courtesy visit to a person after any major illness. That should be strictly avoided.

Wear a surgical mask while going out, and avoid crowded places like visiting malls, religious worship places, and family functions. Be careful while using the public transport system, especially in the early stages. Isolate yourself if any family member develops fever, cold, or cough till their symptoms subside.

Regular follow-up with the doctor as advised is very much important. During the initial days, you may have to visit the doctor twice a week and the frequency of visits will reduce over a period of time. You can get back to your job, three months after the transplantation surgery if the clinical status is stable