Coping with transplantation Part 2: posttransplant phase

Progress in Transplantation, Mar 2004 by Mize, Janet B, Cupples, Sandra A

The side effects of steroids may include weight gain, puffiness, and fat deposits. Steroid therapy can increase your appetite and cause you to retain fluid. Even patients who watch their diets carefully may have body fat redistributed to the face, back of neck, and stomach area. Exercise and a balanced, low-salt, low-fat diet are key to limiting weight gain while on steroids. Meet with your transplant dietit ian for specific guidelines. Remember, there are many things that you, as a transplant recipient, cannot control, but diet and exercise are 2 parts of your life over which you have complete control!

Acne is another side effect of steroid therapy. It is important to keep your skin as clean as possible. Consult your dermatologist for recommendations about antiacne creams. Remember, however, not to take any over-the-counter or prescription medications without first checking with your transplant team.

Cyclosporine may cause excessive hair growth. This usually occurs in areas of the body where hair is already growing. Generally, this is more of a problem for women than men. Ways to deal with excessive hair growth include waxing, depilatories (hair removal products), and frequent shaving of legs. Check with your transplant team before using any hair removal products. Because you are at increased risk of infection, it is important that you use a product that is safe for your skin.

Overgrowth of gums (gingival hyperplasia) is another side effect of cyclosporine. Gum surgery can help correct this problem. This surgery typically is not done until your steroid therapy is at low levels or has been discontinued. The periodontist who performs your gum surgery may want a letter from your transplant team stating that it is safe for you to have this surgery. A letter from the transplant team that explains that the gum overgrowth is a side effect of your antirejection medication may improve your chances that your insurance company will cover a portion of the cost of this surgery.

One final thought to keep in mind: although the side effects of medications may affect your body image, don't let them tarnish your self-image! The very fact that you have survived an end-stage organ disease and major transplant surgery means just that-you are a survivor and a winner!

Reference

1. Parr E, Mize J. Coping With an Organ Transplant. New York, NY: Avery; 2001.

Janet B. Mize, RN, BSN, CCTC, CCM

Sandra A. Cupples, RN, DNSc