Hi all,

I have been reading a lot about port infections and the hard time some go through when this happens. It also seems that it makes erosion more likely.

I was wondering if there is anything we can do prior to and after surgery to minimize the chance of infections?

Vitamin C? Any suggestions would be great. I want to do all I can to avoid this possibility.

According to the 7 surgeons I know, "infections happen." It can never hurt to boost your immune system with supplements, but I don't think you can plan to avoid infections.

I agree, boosting the immune system can't hurt.

But I feel there are things out there that can be done that many allopathic doctors are not aware of, so you can't take what they say, or don't say as gospel.

For example, my doctor never heard of taking charcoal for indigestion.

It's one of my best finds ever, given to me by a holistic D.O.

I agree that allopathic physicians sure don't have all the answers. Charcoal is wonderful, but be aware that it can interfere with absorbtion of any meds you are taking, too. I've kind of quit using it because of that, but if I was really miserable, I'd use it in a heartbeat. Another terrific thing is Zicam, which is homeopathic and either prevents getting a cold or cuts it down to 2-3 days of very minor symptoms. It's been a lifesaver, as I get really sick when I get a cold. You start taking it when you first notice cold symptoms and use it every 3 hours for a couple of days. It's like magic! Comes in pills to dissolve under your tongue (I couldn't stand them) and a nasal gel you squirt into your nose.

Don't know about infection preventatives, tho. Let us know if you find out anything that has good success...

Emily

I wish there WERE something to prevent them. During surgery when I was getting my 2nd port, I was told they did things to prevent infection above and beyond what they would normally have done. 4 days later, infection STILL set in. Not the best person to ask maybe, but would love to hear it if anyone has any ideas.

I recenly posted some information on Protein in the food Forum entitled Choosing Protein Sources and supplements. An excerpt from that stated:

Dietary Proteins are strong compounds that build and repair body tissues from muscles to hair and fingernails. In addition to maintaining the body's structure, proteins speed up chemical reactions in the body, serve as chemical messengers, fight infection, and transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues.

I agree that there are many things which can cause infections, however I think many of us don't understand the importance of getting our proteins in. My nutritionist had me eating high protein 2 weeks prior to surgery and Im supposed to be getting a minimum of 60 grams per day still (mushie phase). This was for good reason.. while we are eating low carb and low fat (those things which our body typically looks to for energy) our bodies will be turning to protein for energy, thus taking from our muscles.

Since we have gone thru surgery, we need more protein to repair the torn (cut) tissues and to fight the infections. If we are not providing that with supplements, we run a higher risk of infection, longer recovery periods, and loss of muscle mass which will make us look older and unhealthy.

Choosing protein supplements is important. Many are just a waste of money because they do not contain enough 'digestible proteins'. If you are interested in choosing a good protein drink/shake. Read that post.

Thanks for letting me find another place to stand on my soap box. *laughs*

Erin, I am so sorry to hear that, I've read your posts. What is it that they did for you to prevent?

Your so right Emily. I totally agree with you. My gastro doctor didn't know anything about aloe vera juice as well.

One thing I am doing is taking vit c and also milk thistle for the liver. If lymph system is the software of the immune system, the liver is the CPU, and milk thistle is really good for the liver.

Garlic is a really good immune system builder, and I take garlic oil for my chronic fatigue, but it's also a blood thinner, so if your going into surgery, its not a good idea. I'll resume afterwards though.

Susan, you can get on your soapbox in my thread anytime, because I totally agree and am a huge advocate of combining traditional (allopathic) with holistic health regimes ,nutrition and supplents to keep you healthy.

Not all doctors (and I would venture most) are up on this stuff.

I will also kick up my protien, as you suggested. I'm a vegetarian, so I might not be getting as much as I should.

Hey Leener,

Thanks for the soapbox approval. Since you are a vegetarian, be sure to read that article I put in the food forum. There is important info in there about getting the Protein you need as a vegetarian.

And, the more I read about people losing their bands to infections and erosions the more nervous I get. I invested my meger inheritance in this lovely little band, if I were sitting here with no band and my thoughts of what I 'should have done with that money' I think I'd lose my mind.

Here's to a wiser and healthier us!