I think this is really bad…

The doctor advised my mother today that she is in stage 3 of kidney failure. No advanced warning… no stage 1 or stage 2. Stage 3, wherein stage 5 is failure. Halfway to failure.
And the worse part… I didn’t know a damn thing about it. I’m on the phone telling her things I think she could improve about her diet, based on what the nurse told her over the phone…. “cut out carbs and sugars” she said. “No bread or pasta or sweets.” So, mom asks me what else is there to eat? Of course, I suggest eating more protein and drinking plenty of water to help feel full, along with her new exercise regime.
Now I’ve been sitting here reading about reduced kidney function and … oh.. let’s see… and I’m sure many of you knew this…. cut down on protein, limit fluids, and don’t begin any new exercise activities until the doctor says your condition is managed and not worsening. Apparently she is high at risk for complications from Anemia, dizziness, weakness, that make exercising more dangerous for her.
You’d think I was out to kill her. =\
I’ve already emailed her a ton of info, but more research definitely needs to be done.
living_tonglin has made a Comment
Even though we’ve not yet met in person, I’m overwhelmed with sympathetic response.
February 16, 2006 @ 12:19 pm
flerly has made a Comment
Thanks a lot. I’ve spent a long night worrying about this and trying to figure out how to help her while she’s so far away. Sis and I are already looking at hiring a nutritionist for her. … I babble. Thanks for the thought.
February 16, 2006 @ 12:24 pm