I Hate Dialysis Message Board
Dialysis Discussion => Dialysis: Pre-Dialysis => Topic started by: KarenInWA on March 11, 2011, 06:10:01 AM
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I just saw my neph yesterday, and he thinks my fistula (which I don't have yet - yes, I am a procrastinator...) will not mature in time. My GFR is 13 as of last week, my creat is around 4. The lower # on my BP was 89 last week when it was checked, now it's around 100! I don't want a chest catheter, I want my fistula to mature and start D at that time. I was hoping I had more time, but, alas, I have to accept the reality that I just don't. I am not nauseas, have no tremors, no swollen ankles (but hell, it's winter), I have an appetite - although it is not as big as it used to be. But I eat and get hungry, damn it! I will be seeing the vascular surgeon on Thursday am.
Thoughts?
KarenInWA
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The good thing is you dont feel to bad.
So hopefully once you get your fistula (try to fast track it) you will have enough time to have it matured.
I can understand you not wanting a chest cath.
Im sure you know this but the PD operation heals within a week or two and is ready to go.
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You must be feeling so many different emotions at this time. (hugs) You know how your quality of life can determine dialysis no matter what the numbers, but you are feeling well. This is really something for you and your Dr. to discuss. Your numbers though may be enough to go by in the Dr.s mind. From experience my husband's #'s started going down rapidly once they started not to say you are the same. I guess when the time is really there for real, it's a big jolt. You'll figure out what's right for you. *thinking of you*
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The good thing is you dont feel to bad.
So hopefully once you get your fistula (try to fast track it) you will have enough time to have it matured.
I can understand you not wanting a chest cath.
Im sure you know this but the PD operation heals within a week or two and is ready to go.
Yes, but there is just no way I can do PD. Just the mere thought of having to be hooked up to a machine for so many hours every single day, via a tube in my stomach, depresses me to no end. I don't know how I could have a life with that. It would be way too much of a life change for me. I'd also have to buy a lot of new clothes, since I don't have loose fitting pants. I just can't do it.
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:grouphug;
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Oh Karen, I really feel for you. It's the moment of truth, isn't it. I have imagined this moment for sooooo long. You are in my thoughts and prayers. You will be fine. This is the tough part, I think...that transition from pre-D to D.
If I were in your shoes, I'd get the fistula done asap. If you want it to mature quickly, ask the vascular surgeon what you can do to make that happen. You're right...the goal is to avoid a catheter if you can. I could still happen if you work at it.
As long as you are feeling well enough, stay off D. Get the fistula done. If you end up needing a catheter, at least you will have cut down on the time that you will need it.
Everything WILL be OK. :cuddle;
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Karen,
I am sorry, it must be overwhelming. I am going to go back and read your posts but I want to ask about your transplant status. Every time I read about someone getting a catheter or fistula I wonder why they aren't working toward a preemptive transplant. Even if you don't have a living donor, if your GFR is below 20 you qualify to be listed. I know not everyone wants or can get a transplant, but if you want one - ask about this. (edited: I did read back and you're doing all you can!) It sounds as though you're feeling ok despite the lab numbers, which is always a challenge because no 2 people seem to be the same. I hope you stay that way for awhile and can get your access worked out. :cuddle;
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i have my fistulla installed and am on the transplant list also. I am not startin D until i know its time not the doctors looking at labs. i feel i am the one who will know when its time, right now i feel okay and i wan to be the one to make the decision not him...... :2thumbsup;
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I knew D was coming and like all of you wanted to put of dialysis for as long as possible. When the crash came (I was on holiday) it was dramatic, swift and came with no warning. One week I was doing great and then BANG my kidneys just packed it all in.
I WISH I HAD STARTED D EARLIER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FOR TWO MONTHS I WAS IN BAD SHAPE AND IF I HAD BEEN ON D A BIT EARLIER I COULD HAVE AVOIDED ALL THAT.