Is it different to do Dialysis at home?
Patients do have the option to receive treatment in the comfort of their own homes. This saves time wasted in traveling to the dialysis clinic and reduces the risk of exposure. However, patients who do opt for this will first need dialysis access created or placed via a minimally invasive surgical procedure
Can I have the treatment at home?
Depending on your course of treatment, home dialysis can be an option for you. This gives you flexibility and maybe a better fit for your personal schedule. Dialysis can drastically alter a person’s life with its demanding schedules. With home dialysis, this burden is relaxed a little.
Do you want to delay Dialysis?
Dialysis will help a patient feel better and live longer. However, dialysis is time-consuming and can have some serious side effects such as blood pressure, muscle cramps, and infection. The longer you have dialysis, the longer you expose yourself to the chance of side effects.
With some guidance, waiting to start dialysis is also an option. If you wait, you will not have as many limits on your time and lifestyle. Hemodialysis takes more than 12 hours a well and is usually conducted at a dialysis center. Peritoneal dialysis needs to be done about 4 times a day.
Are you feeling exhausted after dialysis?
Fatigue or tiredness is a common side effect of dialysis. Speaking to a nutritionist to alter your diet to energy-inducing foods can help. Alternatively, regular exercise may also help. With time, your body can be attuned to low- moderate exercise which can have a positive long-term impact on your well-being.
Are you not doing well on Dialysis? / Are you reconsidering Dialysis?
Patients who begin dialysis are allowed to make decisions about stopping the treatment. However, before taking such a drastic step, it is advised to discuss your reasons and your decision with your health care team.
When should you consider a Nephrologist?
Although your primary care doctor will work to help prevent and treat the early stages of kidney disease, a nephrologist should be called in to help diagnose and treat more severe or complex kidney conditions such as kidney failure and transplant. A specialist will suggest a way forward for you to manage your disease either with CKD management, dialysis, or suggest a route towards transplant.