Woman collapses, foams at the mouth as her liver function is reduced to 20%
A 65-year-old woman was diagnosed with acute liver failure and went into a coma within three days of collapsing at home.
With 20 per cent of her liver function left, her family is racing against time in search of a donor.
Madam Chen Xiuhua, who lives in Bishan, developed cold sweats, dizziness and experienced a sugar crash in early-April. The mother of two would have to lie down regularly to rest.
On April 17, her son found her collapsed on the floor and foaming at the mouth. He immediately called for an ambulance.
Madam Chen's husband He Wenyou, 65, told Shin Min Daily News that his wife was still conscious and able to talk at the beginning of her hospitalisation, but her condition deteriorated rapidly.
She is currently in a coma and relying on machines and medication.
"Currently, her liver only has 20 per cent of its function left," Mr He said.
The doctor recommended a liver transplant as soon as possible, as the accumulation of toxins has begun to affect other organs such as the kidneys.
"The doctor said my wife will die if we can't find a matching liver donor soon," said Mr He.
"My wife was put on the waiting list for a liver source two days ago. We are really racing against time."
Mr He and his family are now looking for a matching liver donor to save Madam Chen.
The requirements for donating a liver include:
- Between 21 and 55 years of age
- Type O blood
- Weighing at least 45kg
- In good health
- Has no liver disease
- Not carrying any viruses such as hepatitis A or hepatitis B.
Madam Chen's family tried to donate, but tests revealed they were not a match.
Their 39-year-old son has type B blood, while their 36-year-old daughter has type O blood, but her liver size does not match her mother's.
"My wife's siblings are above 55, so they do not meet the requirements."
Mr He revealed that his wife was transferred to the intensive care unit after falling into a coma, and the daily cost can hit $25,000. To date, hospital fees have accumulated to $100,000.
The cost of liver transplant surgery will be about $50,000, but post-surgery treatment will be required, and the overall expense is estimated to be between $400,000 and $500,000.
"We are just an ordinary working-class family. My wife has been a housewife since our daughter started primary school," shared Mr He.
"Although we have insurance, the high medical expenses and the fact that we have yet to find a suitable liver source have put me under a lot of pressure."