Renal Diet and Suppressed Immune System

[Hollymom1229]

So for the last three weeks, my DH who just three months ago was as healthy as a horse, has been in the hospital. He contracted a rare autoimmune disorder that attacked his kidneys, joints, and lungs (along with a bunch of other things). It looks like he will be getting out of the hospital this weekend.

It has been a scary and rough few weeks. We cancelled our anniversary trip at the end of October because the doctors didn't want him travelling that soon. But they have said if all keeps going well we should be able to make our trip at the beginning of December.

DH will have some restrictions going forward though. He will be on a renal diet (not dialysis level, just watching for salt and potassium) and because of the chemo to treat his disease his immune system will be supressed. I was wondering if anyone here has guidance on what to do about the diet and good ways to protect his immune system. Thanks for the help.

 

[disney212]

Oops

 

[disney212]

I can't speak to the renal diet but my last 6 trips have been while on immune suppression therapy including a trip 4 months after losing half of one of my lungs and it included a Disney Cruise. I wash my hands frequently, do not touch rails, doors, etc. Always wash hands before eating anything and never touch my eyes, nose or mouth with bare hands. After exiting rides I use hand wipes until I can properly wash my hands. The biggest issue is kids who do not cover their nose/mouths when coughing/sneezing. I can spot them a mile away. Shows are the worst, we always sit in the back on the end. I also start taking Airborne the week before we leave. Don't want to put the whammy on myself but so far so good.

 

[Jedana]

So for the last three weeks, my DH who just three months ago was as healthy as a horse, has been in the hospital. He contracted a rare autoimmune disorder that attacked his kidneys, joints, and lungs (along with a bunch of other things). It looks like he will be getting out of the hospital this weekend.

It has been a scary and rough few weeks. We cancelled our anniversary trip at the end of October because the doctors didn't want him travelling that soon. But they have said if all keeps going well we should be able to make our trip at the beginning of December.

DH will have some restrictions going forward though. He will be on a renal diet (not dialysis level, just watching for salt and potassium) and because of the chemo to treat his disease his immune system will be supressed. I was wondering if anyone here has guidance on what to do about the diet and good ways to protect his immune system. Thanks for the help.

*C/P from Davita.com*

A kidney diet is one that is low in sodium, phosphorous and protein. A kidney diet stresses the importance of consuming high-quality protein and limiting fluids. Some kidney diets may also call for limited potassium and calcium. Every person is different, and therefore, a dietician will work with each patient to come up with a kidney diet that is tailored to his or her needs.

Potassium is found mostly in fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Certain fruits and vegetables are high in potassium and others are lower. However, eating a large amount of a low-potassium food can cause potassium to add up to dangerous levels. Be aware that most foods contain some potassium—meat, poultry, bread, pasta. Butter, margarine and oils are the only foods that are potassium-free.



*c/p from kidneyfund.org

One of the best things that you can do to stay healthy is to limit how much sodium you eat. To limit sodium in your meal plan:
•Do not add salt to your food when cooking or eating. Try cooking with fresh herbs, lemon juice or other salt-free spices.
•Choose fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned vegetables. If you do use canned vegetables, drain and rinse them to remove extra salt before cooking or eating them.
•Avoid processed meats like ham, bacon, sausage and lunch meats.
•Munch on fresh fruits and vegetables rather than crackers or other salty snacks.
•Avoid canned soups and frozen dinners that are high in sodium.
•Avoid pickled foods, like olives and pickled.
•Limit high-sodium condiments like soy sauce, BBQ sauce and ketchup.

Important! Be careful with salt substitutes and "reduced sodium" foods. Many salt substitutes are high in potassium. Too much potassium can be dangerous for someone with kidney disease. Work with your dietitian to find low-sodium foods that are also low in potassium.



Eat this ... (lower-potassium foods)
Apples, cranberries, grapes, pineapples and strawberries Cauliflower, onions, peppers, radishes, summer and zucchini squash, lettuce
Pita, tortillas and white breads
Beef and chicken, white rice

Rather than ... (higher-potassium foods
Avocados, bananas, melons, oranges, prunes and raisins
Artichokes, kale, plantains, spinach, potatos and tomatoes
Bran products and granola
Beans (baked, black, pinto, etc.), brown or wild rice

 

[ttintagel]

I have a suppressed immune system, and I've gotten sick on my last two trips. (Pneumonia makes Mickey's Christman Party Not So Very Merry!)

Next time, I'm going to up my hand sanitizer use (seems impossible; I already felt like Howard Hughes, but I guess it's worth it); bring a travel pack of Lysol wipes for things like QS tables, hotel room and bathroom doorknobs, airplane armrests and tray tables, etc.; and wearing surgical masks on the plane and in close, heavy crowds.

I haven't tried it yet, but this Gold Bond Hand Sanitizer Lotion looks promising for using lost of hand sanitizer without drying out your hands too badly.

And as silly as it sounds, it's easy to forget to stay hydrated. I have to remind myself to drink even when I'm not thirsty.