Almost Too Much For Me

[joyfulmother]

The results from my transplant evaluation, specifically the stress test, show that I have some ischemia and they want me to do a heart cath.  That worries me enough, but I know if they find blockages that will mean what?  open heart surgery?  I'm not freaking but I feel nothing.  My faith is wavering and I'm not feeling strong.  I wonder if I can really be strong enough to do all of this.  The bottom line is, I'm not ready to die just yet.  And want a heart cath destroy any kidney function I have left?  What will that mean?  I am so tired...

[willowtreewren]

Hi, Becky,
Some people make the decision not to pursue a transplant. I know that you want one, but if it happens that you can't get one, you might investigate different kinds of dialysis. Different people respond differently to the types of dialysis. If you are feeling tired and washed out, and you aren't able to move forward with a transplant, it might be something to consider.

The other thing is that getting listed is no guarantee that you will get a transplant any time soon.

I know this muc be a hard decision for you. Best wishes and hugs. 
Aleta

[marti824]

a heart cath should not have any effect on your kidney function.  it is a relatively painless procedure.  the worst part, for me, was having to lay still for hours after to make sure the bleeding stopped.,since they go in through the femoral artery in the groin.  sounds lik a horror, but it's not so bad.

[paul.karen]

I also saw a cardiologist today about ischemia they found while doing a stress test.
I read the dye they use is really bad for the kidneys.  I am at about 11% kidney funtion.  They want to put a stent in my artery but i am woried about loosing the small part of the kidneys i have left.  I see a doctor on the 8th to talk about getting my PD access placed.  I am hoping to put of the stent procedure unitl i have my PD access.  So i can do regular dialysis rather then be forced to get a cath placed for hemo.  Im hoping this will work out?
I hope you find a way to make yourself feel comfortable.

PS. they did find a blockage in  artery thus i need the stent put in through my groin.
Karen wants to be a donor for me but they wont even run any tests until i get the stent placed..

What do you mean by a heart cath?  For hemo dialysis.  You are on PD cycler right.

[RightSide]

I also saw a cardiologist today about ischemia they found while doing a stress test.
I read the dye they use is really bad for the kidneys.  I am at about 11% kidney funtion.  They want to put a stent in my artery but i am woried about loosing the small part of the kidneys i have left.  I see a doctor on the 8th to talk about getting my PD access placed....

Ask your doctor(s) about N-acetylcysteine (NAC).  It's been found to reduce renal damage caused by these dyes:

"Acetylcysteine protects patients with moderate chronic renal insufficiency from contrast-induced deterioration in renal function after coronary angiographic procedures, with minimal adverse effects and at a low cost"


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acetylcysteine

NAC is available over the counter from health food stores.

[angellady07]

Becky, I'm sorry you are going through such a rough time. I know it's hard but try to keep the faith. Please remember you are not alone. Take care. 

[Chris]

What do you mean by a heart cath?  For hemo dialysis.  You are on PD cycler right.

The heart cath test lets doctors view your arteries through a flouroscope x-ray and in some with a camera to look for narrowing, blockage, or something else. When I had mine done pre transplant I was able to watch the flouroscope till passing out due to reaction to med they used and then from the other med they used through the IV. Once that was done my blood sugar was high, my mouth was dry and the nurse finally brought me a drink. Ended up coughing and started to bleed. Just one bad experience after another for me that day, a nurse shaving me, a nurse pressing down on my groin, and then not being able to go home or move much do to a high level of something from the medications used.

But the one thing to think about is your health. Avoid a heart attack at all possible cost or other heart problems before it's to late to do anything if theree is a blockage or there may not be a need to worry about getting that pd cath. Just weigh your options carefully.

[Lucinda]

YOu are a braver girl than me.  I won't even consider all the testing for a transplant.  I will be going with my dialysis machine attached!   

[kristina]

Hallo, Becky,
I am very sorry you have to go through this,
and I send you my kind thoughts and best wishes,
from Kristina.