I Hate Dialysis Message Board

Dialysis Discussion => Dialysis: General Discussion => Topic started by: Annig83 on April 25, 2012, 09:29:44 PM

Title: Question
Post by: Annig83 on April 25, 2012, 09:29:44 PM
I was curious if anyone here was or is a smoker of cigarettes? I smoke occasionally especially when I'm stressed. I have been more upset this past week and have puffed a few more than I should have. I have transplant testing to stay on the list next week... In their standard drug tests, do they look for nicotine use? And if so will it disqualify me from receiving a transplant?  I want to quit for good not just cause if staying on the list but for my overall wellbeing and health. Any support would be appreciated :). At least I don't have to worry about anything else!! :2thumbsup;
Title: Re: Question
Post by: Rerun on April 25, 2012, 09:34:32 PM
I smoke cigarettes once in a while.  I'm on dialysis and no fit for a transplant.  So who gives a damn.  I won't die of lung cancer I can guarantee you that.

I would not say to the transplant team that you are an "occasional" smoker.  They will note... SMOKER!

I know if you smoke pot you need to stop because of the other chemicals they put in it. 

I don't think cigarettes (a few) are a big deal.   DO NOT ASK THEM.  Just stop if you are worried.
Title: Re: Question
Post by: jeannea on April 26, 2012, 12:32:11 PM
A few are not necessarily a big deal now. But you need to stop. After transplant your meds can be affected by smoking. You have to always smoke the same amount all the time or your med levels get messed up. So make that same amount zero.
Title: Re: Question
Post by: gothiclovemonkey on April 26, 2012, 02:13:53 PM
I can tell u for certain if its Indianapolis!
I went there, and I am a smoker, they denied me! (not just for smoking...)
They said that had they found me acceptable for transplant, I would have to show nicotene free for (i think) 6 mos. I also think that the test they use actually shows how much u smoke. So if its is occational, tell them that.
The doctor i spoke with there said he loved my honesty, so just be very honest about it. Most likly they will list you if you qualify, but it will be listed inactive until u are 'clean'
:) Good luck!
Ps. Peoria has me listed active even though I smoke, they want me to quit, prefer that i do, but its not required to be listed!
Title: Re: Question
Post by: Annig83 on April 26, 2012, 10:25:05 PM
Thanks you guys. I quit today! Now if I could quit chocolate I'd be set!!
Title: Re: Question
Post by: MooseMom on April 26, 2012, 10:41:23 PM
Thanks you guys. I quit today! Now if I could quit chocolate I'd be set!!

Good for you!  You deserve the best shot at a transplant and a new life!
Title: Re: Question
Post by: Jean on April 27, 2012, 12:53:24 AM
I also quit 7 months ago, using the e-cigarette. I quit because I wanted to, not for a transplant. So, if you have some hard times with the quitting, consider trying the e-cig, they got me thru a lot of bad times, and I would love to see them help others. I have gotten them for at least 3 other people who wanted to quit and couldnt and for the most part they worked.
Title: Re: Question
Post by: jeannea on April 27, 2012, 01:02:19 PM
I'm proud of you!
Title: Re: Question
Post by: Annig83 on April 28, 2012, 07:23:48 PM
Day 3 and still clean!! :bandance;  Since I'm only the occasional smoker, it hasn't been too bad...but my boyfriend does smoke and when he steps outside, I feel the need to follow...I've bought gum which is helping for sure, and I started painting again to keep myself busy (when my son lays down for a nap).  Thanks for the well wishes and info.  I have my stress test on Monday, followed by a chest X-Ray and my labs for transplant.  I see the new transplant doc. on May 23 here in Indianapolis!  :clap; 

And in other good news, my brother-in-law and his girlfriend have both volunteered to get tested to see if they are matches for me :)  YAY!
I will keep everyone updated! 
Title: Re: Question
Post by: bleija on April 28, 2012, 09:39:48 PM
i know for gainesville, ii told them that i had tried, as in i smokede 2 times less than 2 cigarettes in my entire life, and i had to do nicotene screenings for 6 months before i was listed