Dehydration after surgery

[Paparafa]

Hi everyone!
New to the forum. I am 51 and donated a kidney to a dear relative almost two weeks ago.
I keep testing dehydrated even though I am drinking 3-4 liters of water a day.
My body does not seem to retain water as it just flushes out. I am still weak, as it was expected, but also get a little dizzy after walks even if I drank enough liquids.
At nights, I wake up every two hours to relieve myself and to drink water as my mouth is bone dry.
Anyone out there who experienced something similar after donating?
Thanks!

[elephant]

Dear Papa,

No I had nothing like that.  But I was weak and tired for sure.

Have you seen a physician for follow up?  Have you had your blood sugar checked? 

Love, elephant

[Michael]

Not to alarm you, but those sound like symptoms of diabetes. Best to see a doctor to find out what's going on.

[Paparafa]

I did have my follow up visit and another lab work. It looks like levels are going down and things are moving in the right direction.
Thank you.

[elephant]

Great, I'm glad to hear you are feeling better. 

[Michael]

Good news!  :D

[Fr Pat]

     Glad to hear that there is improvement. Over the years I have read about kidney donors who suffered from dehydration because they were negligent about their fluid intake, but had never before heard of a case like yours in which you are drinking enough. So if it does not get back to normal, please be sure to follow up with a doctor. Since it has only been 2 weeks since donation, perhaps it might be an after-effect of the medications/anesthesia? Also the urinary catheter that they use during surgery can irritate the urinary tract for a while afterwards, causing increases (excessive?) urination?

[RKEM]

Those do sound like very extreme symptoms, especially given the quantity of fluids you are taking in. 3 to 4 liters is a lot. I would definitely keep an eye on it and seek help if it doesn't improve. I know that in the weeks following surgeries, I would wake up nauseous because I dehydrated during the night. But I was never drinking as much as you are.

[bglf83]

I donated on December 2, my water intake is around 3 liters and I still drink tea etc...

I find myself going to the rest room often as well, I have my follow up at the end of the month.

Except for going to the restroom often, I feel good.  I am 33.

[Paparafa]

Hey everyone...two months and a week in...life is almost back to normal.  I almost have all of my strength back and feel pretty good about my recovery.  I am going skiing for the second time today...nothing extreme just an easy time on intermediate runs.
Just wanted to update it as I do not want to discourage anyone thinking about giving the gift of life.

[elephant]

Excellent!  I hope your recipient is also doing well!