transplant fatigue

[howardstokenham]

fatigue after transplant

[Cap21_NKF Partner]

Experiencing some fatigue after a major operation like a transplant is normal. Continue to rest and follow your transplant team's instructions. For more information about transplant operations, visit kidney.org/atoz/atozTopic_T...

[AndrewT]

Dear Howard,

Can I, before I Try To, answer your question- ask for a 'Bit' more information please?

Perhaps something regarding you 'Overall Condition'... do you have say Vasculitis or Lupus, for example.

In general terms, I will say this, Kidney Transplant IS a 'Major' Operation- perhaps Not as 'Major' as Heart Transplant.... but certainly Way More than a Tonsillectomy!

So YES, in all probability, a High level of Fatigue IS Likely..... Without any of your 'Condition' coming into 'Play'.

I was Transplanted, 'way back', in July 2013 and yes I do get 'Fatigue, but then I have ANCA Vasculitis, Heart Failure and Brain Damage..... so it's not a Surprise really.

If, as I strongly suspect, you were Transplanted Recently (even Very Recently) then this would, partly anyway, explain your question..... but you should be 'Up To Your Eyeballs' in literature, I know that I was.

Lastly, and it Should have been 'Firstly', Congratulations On Your Transplant Howard

😀. Please Feel Free to contact me- indeed Any of 'us'- should you need to.

All our Very Best Wishes

AndrewT

[Eyak1971]

Every person has a different reaction after transplant depending on many factors. Before my transplant I attended seminars where transplant patients talked about immediate renewed energy but mine was not the case. But eventually I returned to a normal energy level after exercise and improving my diet. However for me it took several months. Take care and know- time heals all wounds.

[Transplant314]

Fatigue is a given after a major operation like a transplant. Age will play a factor in your recovery as well. Your body was probably fatigued before the transplant due to your CKD as well. It took me six months to feel my energy come back but I was 64 at the time of my transplant operation. Your body is also adjusting to the medication. Try to walk each day. Good luck.

[Redbone55 in reply to Transplant314]

Yes that is good advice walking seems to help me even if I don’t walk every day at least 3 to 4 times a week. Stay healthy

[larrymontague826]

I had my transplant 2+ years ago. My main trouble was after being on dialysis for 5 years and being denied the food and liquids I wanted I kind of went crazy eating and drinking. I was 76 years and 11 months old when I had surgery. I gradually started a lite exercise program and eventually I lost my cravings and the weight and got my energy back. I hope this helps a little bit.

[Gardner-NY]

My spouse of over 40 yrs received his transplant almost 3 yrs ago at age 59 yrs. He was never on dialysis for his PKD and he was taking one insulin shot at night for about 5 yrs too for diabetes. He had alot of blood chemistry problems, a low grade rejection, and CMV virus to deal with for 13 months after transplant all things things happened. Since Jan2020 this is all gone, but to this day now he is still fatigued alot . We have always eaten right and I raise a large veggie garden, but no matter what changes he has done, there is no change in his fatigue. He care for himself, but 90% of the things he had done before he cannot do anymore. I truly hope your situation is that you have fatigue due to recent kidney transplant and most people on this website stated in 6 to 12 mos they felt alot better. The surgery is major and the meds you take and how your body reacts is a huge huge factor in the months/years ahead in how you feel. That is my 2 cents. I wish you all the best. Write us anytime.

[WYOAnne NKF Ambassador]

Congratulations on your transplant!!I will just echo others and tell you that it is very common to suffer fatigue right after your transplant surgery. You have to remember that you just had major surgery and you have a whole lot of new medications that your body needs to get accustomed to. You are also healing more slowly than normal due to steroids, etc.

My transplant team suggested I start a walking routine. I was so tired that I thought they were crazy. I did start slowly at first it was just down the block, but tried to increase how far I would walk every few days or so. I did start to feel better and had more energy. At 8 months post transplant I was hiking in Glacier National Park in Montana.

That being said, I had my immunosuppressant meds dose changed several times that first year.

We are all different and react differently to the surgery, and our new meds, etc. Follow what your transplant team tells you. Also, report any issues or problems you have to them.

This October 15th I will be 22 years post transplant.

[Lifechanger1]

I received my kidney at 66. It took me a few months but I currently feel better than I did before the surgery. I am 67 and now walking 2 miles 6 days a week! Major surgery, you will fell better soon. Stay on course with your doctor, eat smart and get walking. Best of luck!

[Transplant314]

I am 2 plus years out. I exercise 4 days a week but most afternoons I feel tired and will lie down. Many days this leads to a nap. Some of this may be boredom since when I am busy I do not feel the need to lie down. Otherwise I feel great and I just accept what my body is telling me.

[Redbone55]

That’s good advice except what your body is telling you!! Blessings and stay healthy and safe! 😊