How do you cope

I have watched my husband , wither away in front of my eyes for the last two years , I've learnt a lot on here about his liver problems , he stopped drinking,he was a heavy drinker , but know his having kidney problems to, my question is how do partners cope with it all , I must say I'm struggling we seem to go from one crisis to another .

[Ronin990]

I'm sorry to hear he is having so many problems and you suffer for it too. These conditions effect the partners just as much and you have to be strong for your loved ones. Are you going to counselling? That can be good for both of you in separate visits.

Do you have any other family members who can help and give yourself a break?

If your husband is now suffering kidney problems too, is he being considered for a transplant?

[19581979]

Hi

Sorry to hear about your husband. Having a partner who is ill is really hard. I've been a family carer for many years before I needed help. In our area there is a centre for family carers. If you have one they may be able to help. It depends on what services they offer. There is also a centre for people who have drug or alcohol related difficulties in our area. They cater for the partners as well as the person who has the difficulties.

If you don't have any specific links in your area your social services should have information about what there is in your area to help.

Gx

[Ninie]

I am also struggling watching my husband but the worst part of it is HE . I do try and be positive and not to show him that I am struggling to cope and crying on my own.

All the best for all the carers because it is very difficult.

[Hidden]

This is a really hard time for everyone, both patient and carer alike. Does your husband have a long term prognosis? I mean is there a chance of a liver transplant? I think it's important to try and look to the future. Does he have any other family members that can help you?

[Ninie in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, liver transplants in our country is very very slim and his age counts against him. he is 69 yrs. I have decided to get help as I work full time. Take Care

[Bonair]

Hi, I'm so sorry to hear about your husband. I totally understand what you're going through as my husband was exactly the same before his liver transplant, having regular blood transfusions, his ascites drained, and his kidneys had also started to be affected. He was literally dying before my eyes. I went to see my GP as I didn't know what to do and I was trying to be strong, but was struggling. My GP wanted to give me anti-depressants, but I didn't want those straight away, so he put me on Proprananol for anxiety. It's not the answer, but it might help. I hope your husband gets a transplant, as you would not believe the difference. My husband now looks as healthier than I've seen him in years.

[Ninie in reply to Bonair]

Thank you for your reply. In our country liver transplants are difficult.

God Bless

[Shirlgirl66]

I live on my own. I've have loads of issues. Last week I was told I have issue with my liver. To be honest I want to give up.. But not strong enough.