Wow, time flies. I have not updated one of these posts since right after the kidney transplant. Since today is nine months post-transplant, I thought I would post an update. Here we go!
- ESRD: Things are still pretty good. My creatinine levels have gone up and down over the past nine month, and the last test came back at 1.34. Both my nephrologist and the transplant center are not concerned.
- Dialysis access: Fistula is still live and making noise. It is definitely less noticeable, but the bumps at each cannulation site are not longer there.
- Cardiac rehab: I am doing my own walking and bought some light free weights. Have not heard from the rehab center since mid-last year.
- Peripheral neuropathy: Ironically, I am in the middle of an attack right now. It started after dinner last night and has kept me up until now. I thought it was getting better at one point, but the pain level is increasing again. Probably a six on the pain scale currently.
- Back pain and pressure in chest: Back is okay now. That was likely an effect of the CABG surgery. I still have some minor pressure in my chest if I sleep to my left, but not really bothersome.
- Minimal urine production: All good. Peeing a lot each day.
- Insomnia: It was better for awhile but it is pretty bad again. My highly variable workload is not helping. Still taking lots of naps during the day and not sleeping well at night. It is 3:00 am right now.
- Dental issues: Sigh. A few more new and replacement crowns. I think I am pretty much done with major dental work, but need to decide whether I want a dental implant for one of my lower molars.
- Endocrinologist: Seen her a few times. Blood sugar is still not controlled so insulin amounts have been steadily increasing for each shot.
- Lump in left leg: Mostly gone. There is just a very small bump and barely noticeable.
- Constipation: No problem. Pooping every day almost.
- Ophthalmologist: Finally went and visited a retina specialist. After two appointments, there is nothing to treat but need bi-annual appointments. Regular ophthalmologist is still good with annual visits.
- Surgery recovery: Everything seems fine. Walking pretty well after surgery until now. There is occasional abdominal pain but not really near the transplanted kidney so doctors not worried.
- COVID-19: Got three Moderna vaccine shots but have not tested for antibodies. Still working from home and not venturing out that much. Basically been out of the house only once during the last two weeks; had to go to Albertsons to get some diet soda.
- Sore leg: That was purely physical pain from stupid fall at UCLA. Leg hurt for longer than I thought but no issues now.
- Not really a health issue but my podiatrist wants me to get fitted for new shoes. I did this many years ago and have been buying the same New Balance cross-trainers on Amazon. Probably need new shoe liners.
I think that is it. There are some other issues being watched due to test results like high hemoglobin and potassium. If I do any more of these updates, I will remove some of the items that are not applicable anymore.
Life with chronic diseases 