10 Tips for a Healthy Lung Transplant Recovery
1. Take all of your medications exactly as prescribed.
If you have any pre-transplant medications left, do not take them unless otherwise instructed by your health care provider.
Keep a list of all your medications and their dosages with you.
Do not take any other medications (over-the-counter or prescribed medications) unless you talk to your doctor first.
Don't stop taking your medications unless you talk to your doctor first.
Never double the dose of your medication.
Do not keep outdated medication or medication that is no longer needed. Throw old medicines away or bring them to the Cleveland Health Library and give them to your transplant coordinator.
If you store your medications in a container, label it with the medication name, dose, frequency and expiration date.
Keep your medications in your carry-on luggage when you travel. Do not pack your medications in a suitcase that is checked, in case the suitcase is lost.
Take extra medication with you when you travel in case your flight is delayed and you need to stay away longer than planned.
2. Keep all of your scheduled appointments with your doctor or transplant coordinators.
3. Call your doctor or transplant coordinator if you have any questions or concerns or if you have
A fever over 99°F.
Flu-like symptoms such as chills, aches, headaches, dizziness, nausea or vomiting.
Cold symptoms such as a cough, sore throat or runny nose.
New pain or tenderness around the transplanted lung.
Increased shortness of breath.
If your microspirometry has declined by 10% over 3 days of readings.
4. Do not ignore any signs or symptoms that you are experiencing. Always call your doctor or transplant coordinator if you have any unusual symptoms or symptoms that cause you concern.
5. Have your blood drawn promptly, as recommended by your transplant doctor or transplant coordinator.
6. Report your lab work results to the Transplant Center promptly.
7. Follow your recommended dietary plan.
8. Follow your recommended exercise plan.
9. Perform your pulmonary function tests every day as recommended (twice a day).
10. Avoid being around anyone who has an infection.