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Preparing for a Transplant
Waiting can be a stressful time. However, there
are things that you can do while you wait to improve
your current condition as well as make recovery
easier after transplant.
- Remain as physically active as possible. Some
people will be able to participate in a cardiac
rehabilitation program. Others may benefit from
simple exercises that can be done while standing
or sitting. Ask the transplant cardiologist
about what level of activity is appropriate
for you. It is important to keep your muscles
in the best possible shape so that you can recover
your exercise capacity more easily and quickly
after transplant.
- Take off those extra pounds. It is an appropriate
time to consider reducing your weight while
waiting for a transplant. Losing weight will
not only reduce the workload of your heart now,
but will also improve your recovery from surgery.
Weight loss programs are available at the Hospital
of the University of Pennsylvania. Please discuss
any programs you are considering with the transplant
cardiologist and coordinator.
- Learn about your diet. This will benefit you
now and ensure good eating habits after transplant.
It is important that you follow the dietary
guidelines given by the transplant cardiologist,
and we will provide the resources to guide you.
- Take your medications as prescribed. Compliance
is important so that you maintain constant levels
of the medications that keep your heart failure
under control.
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