What are the key considerations for managing liver health after a liver transplant?
After a liver transplant, careful management is essential to ensure the new liver functions properly and complications are avoided. Patients must take immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection, with regular monitoring of drug levels and liver function tests. There is an increased risk of infections, so vaccinations, prophylactic measures, and prompt attention to symptoms are important. Cardiovascular and metabolic health should be monitored, as post-transplant patients are prone to hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. The original liver disease may recur, requiring disease-specific treatment. Lifestyle factors, including a balanced diet, weight management, avoiding alcohol, and safe exercise, play a key role. Long-term complications like biliary issues, kidney dysfunction, and malignancies are possible, and medication interactions must be carefully managed. Close follow-up with the transplant team is vital for early detection and management of any complications.