In addition to following doctor’s orders to take care of your new organ after transplant, there are some other things you’ll need to do to stay healthy.
“Patients forget that they have to take care of the rest of their body because they get caught up in the details of the transplant and meds,” says Jennifer D. Refugia, M.S., C.R.N.P., Transplant Nurse Practitioner.
After a transplant, medications that prevent rejection put you at higher risk of certain problems and possibly by the fact you had a transplant. Age makes you more susceptible to serious conditions, even if you never had a transplant.
“For the general public these recommendations are fairly clear and for transplant patients, who are at high risk of certain health problems, these screenings are very important,” reports Ms. Refugia. “Therefore, you should be diligent in having these recommended tests done regularly.” She strongly suggests that patients talk to their primary care providers about having the tests done and to be assertive and proactive in taking care of themselves.
Recommended Tests Colonoscopy: Every 10 years beginning at age 50, but every five years beginning at 35-40 if a patient has a first degree relative with a history of colorectal cancer discovered at 55 years or younger; yearly fecal occult blood testing for all persons older than 50. Skin/lip cancer: Monthly self-exams; a physician skin exam every three years for ages 20-39; annually for people over 40. Good and bad cholesterol/triglycerides: One test during the first six months post-transplant, and at one year, then every six months to a year following anniversary. Breast health: Monthly breast self-exam, clinical breast exam every three years between age 20-39, and annually beginning Gynecologic: Physical exam of the genital areas, including pelvic exam and annual PAP smear for women. Prostate: Annual check for men older than 50 by digital rectal exam and prostate specific antigen measurements (blood work). For patients with chronic hepatitis B and/or C virus infections: Alpha-fetoprotein levels checked and liver sonogram every 6-12 months and regular follow-up with a liver specialist. Osteoporosis: Bone density measurements (DXA screen) as baseline pre-transplant to rule out bone loss or osteoporosis, another at six months after transplant, then every one to two years. You should also have regular dental and optical appointments as well. |
