Varices and Horse Back Riding

[LoriAG]

My husband was diagnosed with cirrhosis 18 months ago and has had 7 varices banded since then. He has completely quit drinking and chewing tobacco. 3 months ago he went in for a check up and the doctor said he had 2 small varices banded. The doctor said they were small and really didn't need to band them, but since he was in there decided to band them. He placed him on the standard 15 lb weight limit. My husband's work requires he ride horses but since the weight restriction he has been unable to ride because of the recommendation from the doctor. He said he feels fine and has probably lifted items beyond the weight restriction but I think the doctor has put a scare into him about riding horses. Should we get a second opinion. How long does the weight restriction last. Will there always be a weight limitation. The doctor said he saw no problem with doing the activities he did before, but the physicians assistant who works with the doctor painted a much bleaker future and advised him against riding horse. We just need some suggestions. Thanks for your help

[fntn]

Your husband is in a very serious position. It's not simply a "lifting too heavy a weight" issue. The primary problem is large spikes in blood pressure, no matter what the cause! If he is doing something with the horses (very unpredictable animals), that causes an abrupt pressure elevations, in particular something that he cannot control - as often happens in dealing with these animals (as the physicians assistant tried to point out) - then he risks an uncontrolled bleed, which can be life ending.

In addition, I'm guessing that weight management part of the program, that IS under his control and a requirement, can force him to modify his diet in ways that are not good, from a liver disease standpoint (guessing he need to be lightweight). Our livers produce a number of very critical proteins that make us healthy. Any diet that is "starvation" oriented can be dangerous, especially when dealing with severe liver diseases. We need a minimum amount of protein, just to survive.  

I was a very active athlete and competitive person. And I realize the realities that are a requirement in activities that your husband engages. But changes need to be made.

We're here to help out in anyway we can. Take care.

[SurfsideGal]

Your husband might want to get a second opinion from a doctor who specializes in hepatitis C. Varices are nothing to fool around with. A bleed can quickly become life threatening. There will likely always be restrictions.