As you consider a kidney transplant as a treatment option for your end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you may have many thoughts and questions on your mind. Write them down to ensure you clear all your doubts in the next appointment. You should be clear about precautions, hygiene, Kidney transplant cost, and post-surgery recovery.
To help you, here are five important points you can discuss with your doctor:
1. Discuss your changes
Keep your doctor informed about the changes you are experiencing. Contact the doctor by phone or email, or speak to them during your appointments. This is important because the more information they have about you, the better they can tell you about regarding appointments, organ potential requests, medical updates, and support.
Alternatively, you should also let your doctor know of any personal or health changes so they can do what they can to keep you physically and emotionally healthy enough to be ready for the transplant.
2. How long do you need to get to the transplant hospital if an organ is available?
It is important to know the availability and convenience. Discuss with your doctor or the hospital management how far you would need to travel. You can plan the expenses accordingly.
On average, you should be able to travel to the transplant centre within 6 to 10 hours of receiving notification of an available kidney, although this may vary by hospital. Speak to your doctor to find out how much time you need. Keep all the necessary things ready with you (best itinerary, hospital bag packed, etc.).
To be on the safe side, you should inform your transplant specialist of your travel plans. They can help you understand whether you should be ready to rush home or to the transplant hospital.
3. Ask about the success rate of your doctor
Without hesitation, ask how many successful transplants this hospital has performed till now. Given the shortage of deceased organ donors, consider living donors for a transplant. Some transplant hospitals offer kidney-paired donation (KPD) facilities. It occurs when two or more living donors are willing to donate one of their kidneys in case the intended recipients are not genetically compatible.
Donors are then matched with the most compatible recipients so that transplants can still occur. Ask your specialist if this option is available at the hospital.
4. Ask about the important points to discuss with the family
Your transplant specialist can tell you the most important issues to discuss with your loved ones. Sharing your biggest concerns or information can help open lines of communication between you and your family. It will give you some additional inner strength.
Also Read more about Essential Dietary Changes You Should Follow to Improve Kidney Health and get aware of it.
5. What are the possible consequences of the transplant?
Ask your doctor about the possible consequences of the surgery. You should know how it will impact you physically, mentally, and financially. The right information will give you the opportunity to prepare.
It is important to know about post-transplant medical follow-up, immuno-suppressants, and other medications. If you need help with finances, ask your transplant hospital team to help determine In Kidney Transplant cost. Also, be aware of how much your insurance will bear and how much you will pay.
The above points are crucial, and you should always ask your doctor or concerned person about these. Besides, if any other doubt hits your mind, note it down and ask the specialist whenever you get a chance. Never move further with a doubtful mind. It will do nothing but give you unnecessary stress.