Do I need a transplant?

[Mindy73]

Hi, last November my GFR was at 15 and my doctor wanted me to get a transplant evaluation so I did but they put it on hold because I suffer from depression and anxiety. I've done everything they've asked of me such as seeing a therapist and getting on medication and I'm supposed to go back in May. I just had lab work done and my GFR has gone up to 24! I see my doctor in a couple of weeks and I was wondering if I still need to go through with the evaluation? I'm healthy for the most part, I don't have any symptoms of kidney disease, thank God so I was hoping to get some opinions from people who have been there. Do you think I should still go through with it? Thanks.

[WYOAnne NKF Ambassador]

YES!!! I can't tell you how important it is to get that evaluation and get put on the list. With CKD you never know what the future holds for you. When I had my transplant the waiting list for me was only 14 months. Now, depending on your blood type could be 5 years. Our future is so uncertain...that you want to make sure you are ready. I am living well after 19+ years since my transplant. Just do it!

=+

[Mindy73 in reply to WYOAnne]

Thanks for answering my question. I was talking to someone about it and they kinda acted like they didn't see why I was doing it since I don't look sick or act sick so I was just wondering. But, I agree with what you said. You never know what could happen. Thanks again.

[Crapgame in reply to WYOAnne]

100% yes! There is no reason not to have the initial evaluation. Start accruing time on the list. You can be considered “inactive “ (meaning you won’t receive calls about a possible donor) however time on the list will still accrue. Hopefully you will never need it- things can change quickly.

[Mindy73 in reply to Crapgame]

Thanks, I didn't know about that. I'll definitely make the appointment and see what happens.

[Stexx]

Hi you are still likely to get an assessment if your GFR is below 25, but this is actually a good thing to be prepared, & possibly begin to look for suitable doners . The concern is that at these levels the kidneys can, and often do, just give up the struggle at short notice, & can fall below 10 suddenly. GFR can vary on how hydrated you are, and the amount of protein you have consumed recently. I had a ‘live’ kidney transplant 5 months ago, but kept it at bay, without dialysis for almost 3 years through lower protein, low potassium & especially low salt foods, and drinking around 2.5 litres minimum each day. There’s plenty of internet advice on diets to increase GFR.

[Mindy73 in reply to Stexx]

Thank you, I'll be making an appointment soon.