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Oct. 22, 2008
Kidney update on my husband
Well, it's check-up time once again. And the report is now in. . .
Again we want to thank you for your kind words of encouragement and for your prayers. The Doctor’s appointment was a mixture of good and bad news. First his kidneys have gotten worse, but not bad enough to get me on the donor list. He, however is going to receive three vaccinations in preparation for dialysis and is also going to a group class to learn about the different types of dialysis and the risk factors of both dialysis and transplant. The doctor says based upon his creatinine levels he at 25-30% function. Dialysis and transplant procedures are not approved until the function level drops to 20% or below. He will go back no in January for blood work and more tests.
Here’s what we know so far. There are two types of dialysis the first is the type where they remove the blood, filter it, and put it back. This type of dialysis would limit us to staying close by the dialysis center and has some strict dietary restrictions. This is inconveinient but the advantage is that they do it for him. The second type is where they put a catheter in his stomach and then he would run fluids through it himself 4-5 times a day. This second type of dialysis is more demanding on us but it has its advantages, one we can go anywhere (he can even ride his bike) and two there are no diet restrictions. Initially dialysis is far less risky than transplant but after the first year, if all goes well those who have received a transplant are at a far less risk than those who are on dialysis. We will know more about both dialysis and transplant after the group class. He will receive the group class date and information in the mail in the next couple of days.
There are 5 levels of kidney disease Level 5 is end stage renal failure… He is at level at level 4. When he last saw the doctor six months ago he was at level 3. The treatment for level 4 is the same as level 3 with the addition of preparing for kidney failure, hence the vaccinations and the group class.
Now for the good news….His Para Thyroid Hormone level (PTH) was down to 228 from 436 (normal is under 65) the vitamin d hormone treatment and natural sunlight is working to help aid his kidneys in the removal of the excess PTH. Also his doctor would like him to stay active. Which includes riding his bike, disc golf, walking, etc…
Sorry it’s so long since the last update, but that’s where he's at.
Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers,
Shutterbug, Bubba, Squirrely-Jo, and my wonderful hubby.
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Posted by
Oct. 23, 2008 - Untitled Comment
~Love, Robin