The liver performs a series of functions ranging from filtering blood from the digestive tract to detoxifying chemicals for the human body. A liver can get damaged due to various diseases like hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, fatty liver, cirrhosis, & lead up to liver cancer as well. While these liver-related diseases can be cured in most cases through medications or prevention is possible through vaccination, what does not have a solution is liver failure; a condition that requires Liver transplant.
A liver transplant can be required to cure final stage liver diseases & liver failure that develops gradually or acute liver failure that develops rapidly. It is a critical surgery that must be performed by a specialist only. However, while a specialist will be performing the surgery, what patients need to handle by themselves is post-surgery care.
In this blog, we will talk about the major 5 precautionary measures that must be followed diligently post liver transplant surgery.
First and foremost, a nutritious diet is what patients require to get back on normal routine life filled with energy post-liver transplant. A liver transplant patient must include fiber-rich food items like whole-grain cereals & bread, fruits like oranges & berries, veggies like broccoli & carrot, and nuts & seeds to the daily diet. Consuming a low-fat diet and avoiding alcohol consumption is also very vital for the success of liver transplant.
Infection prevention is vital for a patient’s overall health after a liver transplant. While infection can occur due to multiple reasons, one major reason is un-hygienic surroundings. To prevent this, patients must create a well-sanitized washroom and living area, and ensure washing hands before the meal, a zero presence of garbage nearby & usage of washed-sun dried clothes.
Exercise after surgery is required to keep the body active and avoid obesity. Brisk walks & yoga are two commonly advised steps that are recommended by specialists. However, depending on the overall health and physique, a patient may be asked to perform other exercises too. Consulting the doctor under whose observation the surgery is conducted is the right way ahead after surgery!
Timely intake of medicines is very crucial to the body for recovery after a liver transplant surgery in India. Vitamins & other supplements are given through these medications to patients. Lack of these can lead to weakness & slow recovery. Thus, patients must not avoid these and regularly visit a doctor to get a review of medication.
Patients must not skip appointments with a doctor post-surgery assuming that they are fit and healthy now, as one may seem fit & healthy from the outside but may not be fit from the inside. It is only a doctor who can identify symptoms of something wrong going on with the body.
Staying away from stress & taking proper sleep are also advised by specialists in India to liver transplant patients. Dr Vivek Vij, recognized as the best liver transplant specialist in India has more than 20+ years of experience in performing critical liver transplant surgery. He and his team guide patients with the complete after-care process which can be very helpful. If you or your family members are suffering from ailments that may require a liver transplant, visit Dr Vivek Vij for the best consultation!
