Depression after transplant....

[ladybarra]

Hi, I am writing with regards to my daughter in law, she had a double lung transplant in August in Sweden where she & my son live. The op went well and in general there are no problems physically, but she has suffered terrible depression & anxiety since coming home to the extent that she admitted herself to a psych ward. has anyone else had experience of this post transplant??? There are NO support groups amazingly in the area, so no one either can talk to. Its very hard for my son who after going thru the crucial op now finds himself in more of a carer role than ever, as she gets shaky, throws up,, The anxiety we think is linked to how much medication now needs taking, and maybe sleeping and not waking up. Since the op she was home 1 week then got a bug so back to hospital for a month, then home a week and admitted herself to hospital (whilst he was at work..)

[Hidden]

I met my transplant consultant recently and he was saying that should I get a transplant I would need to be on steroids permanently. I am therefore assuming you DIL is on the same. Steroids can cause depression (dark thoughts), anxiety etc. They didn't affect me like that when I was on a high dose and I don't know what dose your DIL is on but its a possibility that that may be the cause - especially if you are pre-disposed that way naturally (I am not saying you DIL is - I just figure I am a fairly level, positive person and thats why I was ok).

I woudl suggest you give the BLF nurse or counsellor a ring to talk your concenrs through. Its worth remembering that she has been through a massive upheaval - she has been offered a new life on the back of the unfortunate death of someone elses loved one. I think thats bound to affect anyone.

Good luck - I do hope you can get some better advice than this and get some help for your son and daughter in law.

Marie x

[ladybarra]

Thank you MarieWF. Yes she is on steriods but has had them previously, but its a good thought. Hope your time comes soon, it was about 18mths for my DIL.

[Hidden]

Can only speak for the UK system where support is available from the transplant team who cared for my friend who had a heart lung transplant and the drugs used left her feeling down and very tired for around six months post operation but the physiotherapy helped pick her up.

Wishing you the strength to support loved ones at a difficult time.

[Hidden]

Hi Im really sorry that your mother is feeling so bad. It might be the drugs she is on. I do know that depression and anxiety is very common with illness and i can only imagine what the poor lady has/and is going through. I guess the only way to know is to ask the medical professionals. Give her a big hug and kiss from me please. xxx