Your physical health and endurance level prior to lung transplantation is going to have an impact on your recovery. If you are on the wait list for new lungs you already know what a mixed bag of emotions this news evokes: anxiety, fear, grief, concern and hope. If you are overweight you may have the added stressor of trying to lose that weight with a severely decreased lung capacity. Learn more about the dedicated professionals who will help you lose weight and take charge of your health.
Step 1
Meet your transplant team. Every individual placed on the waiting list for new lungs has an assigned team of medical professionals to help prepare, endure and recover from this major operation. Find out how much weight you have to lose prior to your transplant.
Step 2
Ask your medical doctor or registered dietitian to develop a dietary plan for you. This plan will include decreased calories for weight loss while including the right amount of macronutrients, like protein, and micronutrients, like vitamins, to prepare your body for the healing after surgery.
Step 3
Enter a cardiovascular rehabilitation program locally. These programs are offered by most hospitals and only require your doctor's referral for entry. Some lung transplantation guidelines may require you to graduate this program before transplantation; however the rehab will provide nurses and trained professionals who can help you start aerobic and strength training to increase your lung capacity.
Step 4
Start small activities at home, as tolerated, to facilitate weight loss. Stand up during TV commercials and walk in place or do a set of leg raises. This will be challenging due to your decreased lung capacity, so increase the activity gradually and listen to your body.
Step 5
Get the support of your loved ones and friends. This may be a highly emotional ride and you may feel the desire to quit at times. Having a loved one suggest a walk around the living room or the block after dinner may keep you on track and give you the added benefit of someone to vent concerns to during activity.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your medical team is there to specifically help you. Join a transplant association and get involved. Through local meetings and online chats you may be able to ask how other patients in your shoes have lost weight prior to surgery.
- Do not attempt to arbitrarily exercise or cut calories without the help of your medical professionals.
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