Rejection is a term
used in Transplant recipients when the person’s own body defenses attack the
transplanted organ – this is known as rejection.
Every
one has an immune system which helps fight viruses that make us ill.
In
a transplant patient because the transplanted organ is foreign – the bodies own defence system sees it as a threat and
therefore attacks the Heart, Liver, or whichever organ is transplanted.
Yes – there are
certain medications which transplant patients are required to take known as
anti-rejection drugs (Immunesupresants) such as Cyclosporin – Azathioprin (See medications
page)
These
drugs control the white blood count and lower the immune system thus
protecting the transplanted organ from rejection!
If you have
undergone a Transplant there are a list of symptoms, which may indicate
rejection these are:
1.
Shortness of breath
2. Irregular
heart beat- (Fast heart rate)
3.
Breathing difficulties - (When lying flat)
4.
Dry cough
5.
Swollen ankles and feet
6.
High temperature (Fever)
7.
Lack of appetite.
8.
Generally feeling unwell.
If
you suspect you are suffering from rejection It is important to seek immediate
help from your doctor – rejection if left can cause serious damage to the
transplanted organ – so it’s important to deal with it quickly.
There are certain
drugs that can be given to counter act the rejection such as Solimedrain- this
is a powerful steroid, which is injected into the vain for over a period of
three days and can be done at your hospital or local G.P.