# My Husband Is Really Ill (Liver Failure) \[edited title\]
**URL:** https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065
**Category:** Miscellaneous and Personal Stuff I Must Share
**Created:** [March 17, 2011, 8:50pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065 "2011-03-17T20:50:05Z")
**Posts on this page:** 20
**Page:** 6
### Author:  [@norinew](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/norinew)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 11:36am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/101 "2011-03-19T11:36:09Z")
> [@surrounded\_by\_literalists](#):
>
> When I moved to my small town I was mystified why people often spoke to me as a not so bright small child. Shortly after I realized that everybody was taking me literally; all the time. I am still learning to cope.
Heh. My sense of humor is a little odd, and I often have the problem of people taking me literally, when I’m joking. Welcome to the boards, and you gave **faithfool** some great advice!
**Faithfool** , I’ll be out of town for a day or two (though may have a chance to check back into this thread at the hotel; but I hate posting from my Nook, the keyboard makes me stabby). But I want you to know that you and your husband will remain in my thoughts and prayers! {{{Kemi}}}
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### Author:  [@Spice\_Weasel](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Spice_Weasel)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 12:48pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/102 "2011-03-19T12:48:29Z")
Honey I’m so sorry. I have nothing useful to say, just know that I care and will be thinking of you both through this difficult time.
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### Author:  [@joyfool](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/joyfool)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 1:31pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/103 "2011-03-19T13:31:10Z")
Thank you everyone for the wonderful advice. I’m prepared today with pen and paper to ask plenty of questions to clarify anything we don’t understand. Other than that, I’ll check back in as soon as I have an update.
And thanks again for helping me rest better last night. I feel a little less tired today, a lot less terrified and ready to tackle this head on. No matter what it is, we can beat this together.
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### Author:  [@Khadaji](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Khadaji)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 1:55pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/104 "2011-03-19T13:55:24Z")
> [@faithfool](#):
>
> Thank you everyone for the wonderful advice. I’m prepared today with pen and paper to ask plenty of questions to clarify anything we don’t understand. Other than that, I’ll check back in as soon as I have an update.
>
> And thanks again for helping me rest better last night. I feel a little less tired today, a lot less terrified and ready to tackle this head on. No matter what it is, we can beat this together.
As you know, I’ve had my share of health issues - and so what I do is get a [Composition Book](http://www.amazon.com/Mead-Black-Marble-Wide-Ruled-Composition/dp/B00006IDM7/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1300542841&sr=8-2) to keep notes and questions in. They are less likely to have pages come out so always feel more like a permanent record for me.
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### Author:  [@tarragon918](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/tarragon918)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 2:09pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/105 "2011-03-19T14:09:43Z")
**Faithfool** , you and your husband are in my thoughts and prayers.
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### Author:  [@WhyNot](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/WhyNot)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 2:48pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/106 "2011-03-19T14:48:46Z")
I don’t know how I missed this thread, but I did. I’m sending prayers at the speed of Light, love.
> [@Bearflag70](#):
>
> If your doc gets offended at your asking questions, ask for a new doctor. We ended up switching surgeons because my daughter’s first surgeon was a jerk. We just dumped him and asked the other surgeon to take over.
Indeed. It is your right, albeit one that most people don’t know about, to fire any medical professional you don’t want. That includes the doctor(s) the hospital sends to you, even specialists, nurses, respiratory therapists, etc.
Always remember - \*you \*are hiring _them_. You are the ones in control here, even when they try to bully you into doing what they want. If you wouldn’t accept their behavior from your mechanic, don’t accept it from you doctors.
> [@Ferret\_Herder](#):
>
> One thing to look for at or near the chapel is anything about family support/advocates/etc. There’s probably someone at the hospital who does something along those lines. The chapel is an ideal area to post that kind of information.
You can also ask your nurse to send the hospital chaplain to your husband’s room. If your husband is a religious man, he might find that useful, since he might not be able to go to the chapel with you right now. The chaplain is notified of all admissions, but it sometimes takes them a few days to get around to each new patient to see if their services are required. If you let them know you WANT to see him/her, s/he’ll move you up in the priority list and usually be there within a couple of hours.
Hang in there. Yes, in many ways, you \*are \*on an episode of House right now. There’s a lot of discussion going on that you’re not aware of, as they’re talking to each other before they talk to you. Hang in there.
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### Author:  [@joyfool](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/joyfool)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 4:10pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/107 "2011-03-19T16:10:49Z")
Somewhat good news to report… his hemoglobin levels has come up from the low point of 6 to a now 8.5. Also, they told us what it’s called that his liver is doing; portal hypertension. That’s where too much pressure is being put on your liver, which makes the spleen hold blood, platelets and iron.
The doctor thinks this was set off by a quick weight gain (after a long-term loss) which knocked his internal body out of balance. Since that part has happened before and corrected itself, they think it will do the same thing again. There is no way to cure it otherwise.
They’re giving him extra iron and will also give him another 2 units of blood, plus keep him another day.
On the bad news front, the consensus of two doctors now is that, yes, his liver is that damaged. I will find out from the next specialist what all that means from a transplant angle.
Thanks again from both of us for encouraging us to do better with the doctors. I was ready this time and after asking many questions, felt better prepared and like I understand more now. Couldn’t have done it without you guys.
Much love,
Kemi
---
### Author:  [@WhyNot](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/WhyNot)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 4:24pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/108 "2011-03-19T16:24:08Z")
> [@faithfool](#):
>
> Somewhat good news to report… his hemoglobin levels has come up from the low point of 6 to a now 8.5.
Yay!
> [@](#):
>
> Also, they told us what it’s called that his liver is doing; portal hypertension. That’s where too much pressure is being put on your liver, which makes the spleen hold blood, platelets and iron.
Boo!
Well, I mean boo that he has portal hypertension, but another yay that you understand what it is and that they’re communicating with you.
Keep that notebook handy. There’s going to be a ton of nutritional, medication and other information coming your way in the next few days. Again, don’t hesitate to ask questions, either of them or of us. 🙂
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### Author:  [@Yllaria](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Yllaria)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 4:32pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/109 "2011-03-19T16:32:51Z")
One more person checking in to offer long range hugs and good thoughts. Hope the news keeps getting better.
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### Author:  [@gardentraveler](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/gardentraveler)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 4:41pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/110 "2011-03-19T16:41:27Z")
Glad to hear some more definitive news. More prayers and good thoughts for both of you.
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### Author:  [@alice\_in\_wonderland](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/alice_in_wonderland)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 4:54pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/111 "2011-03-19T16:54:59Z")
Yikes **faithfool** - I know how scary it is to have your partner unwell - last week Mr. Wonderland needed emergency surgery and the docs had a heck of a time figuring out what was going on. (They did, he had the surgery and is now recovering nicely).
Hang in there and do right by your husband. The whole wonderland household is sending positive, healing thoughts to both of you.
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### Author:  [@koeeoaddi](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/koeeoaddi)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 5:31pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/112 "2011-03-19T17:31:01Z")
More positive thoughts from me, **faithfool**. I hope **mr. faithfool** continues to improve!
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### Author:  [@Kolga](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Kolga)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 5:39pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/113 "2011-03-19T17:39:28Z")
I am keeping you and your husband in my thoughts, and sending positive energy.
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### Author:  [@NinetyWt](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/NinetyWt)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 6:20pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/114 "2011-03-19T18:20:11Z")
> [@Khadaji](#):
>
> As you know, I’ve had my share of health issues - and so what I do is get a [Composition Book](http://www.amazon.com/Mead-Black-Marble-Wide-Ruled-Composition/dp/B00006IDM7/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1300542841&sr=8-2) to keep notes and questions in. They are less likely to have pages come out so always feel more like a permanent record for me.
Seconding this, they are more durable than the spiral kind. I have the feeling that a lot of nutritional advice is coming, and it is really nice to have it all written down somewhere.
{{{Kemi and Jasceon}}}
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### Author:  [@Sorrel](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Sorrel)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 6:35pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/115 "2011-03-19T18:35:35Z")
Hi Kemi
Just another voice adding to the choir, wishing your husband a quick and full recovery. Take care of yourself, he’ll need you so much in the time to come and you’ll have to be strong for him. Easier said than done. All the best to you both.
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### Author:  [@nicole1912](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/nicole1912)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 6:51pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/116 "2011-03-19T18:51:05Z")
My thoughts are with you both, Kemi and Jaceson - I hope the doctors find out what, exactly, the problem is, and soon, and that it’s not as scary as you’re imagining! Make sure you ask questions until you’re absolutely clear on what’s happening, and what all your options are - it’s their job to explain things to you, so don’t let anyone make you feel bad about asking; these are things you need to know, so there is no question too silly!
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### Author:  [@Ann\_Onimous](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Ann_Onimous)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 6:58pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/117 "2011-03-19T18:58:20Z")
Kemi, we’re still praying for you and Jaceson. May the doctor’s hands be steady and their minds be clear, and may they answer all your questions to you satisfaction. If you need an ear, we’re her for you.
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### Author:  [@curlcoat](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/curlcoat)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 7:09pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/118 "2011-03-19T19:09:08Z")
> [@faithfool](#):
>
> Somewhat good news to report… his hemoglobin levels has come up from the low point of 6 to a now 8.5. Also, they told us what it’s called that his liver is doing; portal hypertension. That’s where too much pressure is being put on your liver, which makes the spleen hold blood, platelets and iron.
>
> The doctor thinks this was set off by a quick weight gain (after a long-term loss) which knocked his internal body out of balance. Since that part has happened before and corrected itself, they think it will do the same thing again. There is no way to cure it otherwise.
>
> They’re giving him extra iron and will also give him another 2 units of blood, plus keep him another day.
>
> On the bad news front, the consensus of two doctors now is that, yes, his liver is that damaged. I will find out from the next specialist what all that means from a transplant angle.
>
> Thanks again from both of us for encouraging us to do better with the doctors. I was ready this time and after asking many questions, felt better prepared and like I understand more now. Couldn’t have done it without you guys.
>
> Much love,
>
> Kemi
IANAD but didn’t someone say upthread that the liver can repair itself? Either way, it sounds like this is good news!
---
### Author:  [@rekkah](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/rekkah)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 7:28pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/119 "2011-03-19T19:28:33Z")
> [@curlcoat](#):
>
> IANAD but didn’t someone say upthread that the liver can repair itself? Either way, it sounds like this is good news!
Unfortunately liver tissue that has progressed as far as cirrhosis doesn’t normally recover. However people can often live surprisingly well with only a small amount of functioning liver tissue. It may be that once **faithfool** ’s husband has been stabilised and is past this crisis that will be the case for him. There are also some options that can help without transplantation - for example a [TIPS procedure](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transjugular_intrahepatic_portosystemic_shunt) involves inserting a tube to partially bypass the liver and reduce portal hypertension. It’s not without side-effects but can be helpful to many patients.
Kemi, I’m thinking good thoughts for you and your husband. Hopefully he’s feeling a bit better now his haemoglobin has come up. Well done on speaking up with the doctors - sometimes they aren’t great at picking up how much people understand, but they should always be willing to explain more if you tell them you need more explanations.
---
### Author:  [@Khadaji](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Khadaji)
#### Post date: [March 19, 2011, 7:44pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-husband-is-really-ill-liver-failure-edited-title/575065/120 "2011-03-19T19:44:36Z")
Sounds positive. Here’s hoping it continues to get better.
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