Hey. First and foremost, thanks to those who make this forum possible. It’s such a valuable resource to so many and a jumping off point for informative dialogue with their PCPs and/or Specialists.
A friend of mine is worried about her son and is conflicted on how to help him. Understandably, she doesn’t want to believe he still struggles with drug dependency. Of course, it doesn’t help that he would ferociously deny it, even if he we caught in the act.
However, he’s disclosed his problems to me personally in the past and has been homeless for the last year, claiming it was the fault of his gf and her, (solo), struggle with opioid abuse disorder.
You get the idea...
He has been hospitalized in another state with acute renal failure and has started hemodialysis that they’re hoping will be short term. Creatinine levels are have remained concerning and they’re also trying to now manage blood pressure (180/99). Waiting on the results of biopsy to know more.
During his hospitalization, he’s simultaneously tested positive for Hep B and Hep C. No other recent health issues, history of psoriasis and asthma - both mostly untreated.
She said shes noticed that he had some new tattoos the last time she saw him. He had mentioned they were not done by a professional, which could account for hepatitis transmission. In combination with renal failure however, and only the little information the hospital staff was able to give over the phone, it’s hard not to assume that this isn't related to habitual drug use.
What is the likelihood that his current state of health could be attributed to anything beyond substance abuse?