Through biopsies I've been diagnosed with stage 4 cirrhosis and advance Barrett's. My liver is compensated. Last check both MELD and CHILD-PUGH were 10 and 8
They also found a suspious mass near my right kidney they are "watching". Currently taking weekly 50,000 mg doses of vit. D2. Only other meds are Prontonix and Allegra. Just came off a 5 year cycle of BONIVA. My spine is high fracture risk.
Now told that I need total hip replacements & that I have cycsts in my hips (considered not unusual). I work 60-70 hours week. I find I can no longer tolerate that schedule, but need insurance. There is a possibility that my company may downsize and I would be without both a job and insurance.
My company does offer disability which after 6 months I would be required to purchase COBRA. The critical thing would be, though costly, it would cover all the pre-existing. Both my doctors and company are agreeable to this if I think it necessary. Although I am exahusted, I do not feel I am "sick". Considering my condition (sick, but not sick). Do you think this would be prudent? Would my combined diaganosis indicate I most likely will begin "failing" within a relatively short time. I'm just afraid if I do not move swiftly I will be without insurance at a time I will need it the most.
Lastly, I am scared of the hip replacements for fear the meds taken during recovery will cause my liver to decompensate.
Is that a valid concern?
I feel blessed that aside from fatigue and hip/leg pain, I'm fine. But, afraid I may be lulling myself into complancency about my med problems. Though not feeling sick, I guess I am sick.
Can you help me figure this out?