As liver transplant is a complicated surgery, therefore, one should know about life after liver transplant that includes certain lifestyle changes along with recovery time and expected complications. Read to know more.
One needs a healthy liver as it filters the blood of the body and removes toxins. When a person experiences liver issues,in severe cases leads to liver transplantation. The treatment involves the replacement of the damaged liver with a new healthy liver or a part of it. Going through the treatment, life after liver transplant is the key concern for most of the patients suffering from liver issues. With the advancement in the surgical process, the treatment has led to quick recovery with adequate home care, timely medication, and necessary changes in lifestyle. Below are the details about the expected lifepost-transplant.
- Recovery time:
With a successful liver transplant surgery followed by home care, one can recover gradually to lead a comfortable lifestyle(E.g.: traveling, driving, desk job, etc.)within 2-3 months. However, the recovery varies fromperson to person and depends on the kind of activity performed during the recovery period. Thus, one should restrict going back to sports and extensive exercise for at least 3 months, should also avoid contact sports activities like rock climbing, karate, boxing, etc for at least 6 months.
- Complications after surgery:
Since it is a complicated surgery, one can experience complications and discomforts during life after liver transplant. Some of these can be:
- Occasional bleedingcan get controlled with medications.
- One can treat the infections,if arises, with antibiotics and anti-fungal drugs.
- One can cure mild rejections, if noticed, with anti-rejection medicines.
- Lifestyle changes:
To ensure a smooth recovery, with a long-lasting life, some lifestyle changesresult in achieving the desired results. These are:
- Avoid the intake of alcohol and other sedatives
- Increase consumption of boiled water and healthy fluids
- Timely intake of preventive medications prescribed
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Making activities like walking, deep breathing, and meditation,a part of a lifestyle
The expected outcomeof liver transplant is to lead an improved quality of life and increase life expectancy. Thus, a successful transplant surgery,followed by lifestyle changes and a decent home care, results in a good quality of life after liver transplant.