Kidney Donor & Blood Pressure

[rcc703]

Hi, I’m in the process of trying to become a kidney donor for my mom. She’s been on dialysis for a couple of months now. I’m a match and I’ve passed all the other tests; however, I was told that I need to get my blood pressure down first before I can get the final approval. I workout regularly but I love to eat. And the amount of stress at work will never change. I guess I’m just looking for people who’ve had similar experiences and any advice they may have. I know I need to change my eating habits, but will I be able to have some cheat days if I’m on vacation? I probably should lose some weight. The pressure, especially when I’m around people that love to eat good. I guess I have to change my mind set. Hopefully I will see some replies from people who know what I’m talking about or who have had similar experiences. I know I have to make a life change. Thank you for reading.

[Jayhawker]

What did your doctors suggest you do to lower your blood pressure? Low sodium diet? Low fat diet along with low sodium??

It sounds like lifestyle changes would be the focus of your treatment plan. BTW, this will not only make you a potential kidney donor for your mother; it will also be good for your own health.

I definitely understand how these dietary restrictions can alter a social life. I’ve got a lot of dietary restrictions that I adhere to on a daily basis. It’s tricky, although not impossible, to eat out. But I still go out to eat with friends some. And I invite friends to my house for meals some. I also invite friends to my house to watch college basketball, etc. Everyone brings something to eat. I always have renal friendly and heart healthy options so I know I’ll be able to eat something..,

Anyway, I think your first step is to talk with your doctors. Then it will be a matter of doing what they tell you🐶

This is a wonderful gift you’re trying to give your mother!

Marj

[mhawk123]

The first thing you need to do is start monitoring your blood pressure yourself with a good BP kit that fits your arm. Try to record every day at different times of the day so you can see if it is variable. I became a veggie lover and gave up the meats to help produce a weight loss, which also augmented the blood pressure to come down. I use a lot of basil and celery seed seasonings as an added flavor to my food instead of salt. Every thing has sodium, so hook up with your doctor and get a game plan together, so that you can be a healthy donor. I thank you in advance for helping out your MOTHER