Drain cycles

[readie56]

A hepatology nurse remarked today that as I was on a 14 day drain cycle ( producing on average 9-10 litres of ascites) and having been put on a 10 day cycle by the consultant I can expect to produce more ascites.

The more frequent the drains the more ascites you make if that makes sense.

Has anyone else been told anything similar?

I have a low sodium and limited liquid intake regime but it doesn't seem to make any real difference.

Confused

John

[Litimag]

That seems quite common, yes. It's pretty much why they don't rush into draining in the first instance, that and the increased risk of infection of course.

Sodium as you say, is key to trying to control the stuff. There is so much hidden salt in foods it's ridiculous, I really struggled with food choice before my transplant.

The government need to do more to regulate the stuff, but that's for another day.

[readie56 in reply to Litimag]

Hi Litimag

I was shocked when I started looking into the salt content of food.

Out the window goes

- mussels

- brown shrimps

- prawns

- Vegemite

- processed bread

- proper butter

- cheese

- continental cold meats

And so on....

I'm struggling to find something I really like to eat these days.😑

But the devil drives so I must do everything I can

Before the transplant.

Best wishes

John

[Millie09 in reply to readie56]

Hi John, i have been on low sodium for 10 yrs, your actually allowed around 2grams per day as the body needs salt even with cirrhosis. I still eat cheese, wholemeal bread, slightly salted butter etc.. I just work out how many grams per 100g. Anythng that has over 1.2mg per 100gram I will avoid or just have 50gram , so halving it is better than depriving yourself of anythimg.. not done me any harm.. 10ys living with end stage liver disease.. linda

[readie56 in reply to Millie09]

Hi Millie,

10 years.... Wow. That's a long time. Are you on the transplant list?

I'm learning sodium control, I was told 3-4 grams is ok.

I try and keep to 3.

Best wishes

John

[Millie09 in reply to readie56]

Hi John, , no ,im not on any transplant list (touch wood) hope i never have to either, I do go over sometimes if im having a meal out with family. I have got to the point now that anythng with high salt content I just can't eat it . Keep up the good work.. linda

[readie56 in reply to Millie09]

Hi Linda

It's a healthy choice to be salt aware. I'm shocked at the hidden salt.

Best wishes

John