A Closer Look at Life On Dialysis

About 37 million Americans have chronic kidney disease (CKD), a serious health condition that happens when your kidneys don’t function the way they should. Though some people benefit from medication, lifestyle changes, and other therapies, many wind up needing dialysis to support their kidneys and reduce the risk of CKD complications.

At Nephrocare MD LLC, Chadi Saad, MD, and his team help patients maintain kidney function and overall wellness with dialysis management, including therapies tailored to each patient’s health needs and lifestyles. Here, learn what you can expect if he prescribes dialysis to support your kidneys.

How dialysis works

Your kidneys work as filters for your blood, removing wastes and excess fluids. CKD happens when your kidneys are no longer able to filter blood efficiently and completely. Wastes build up, leading to complications that can take a serious and even life-threatening toll on your health.

Dialysis acts as an artificial kidney, using medical technology to filter blood, removing wastes and excess fluid while returning clean blood to your body. Our team offers two primary types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis

Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis uses a special machine called a dialyzer to filter blood. Treatments are performed at a dialysis center one or more times per week. Each session takes a few hours, during which time you can relax and read, watch a movie, listen to music, nap, or surf the web.

Peritoneal dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis filters your blood using your body’s peritoneal membrane, a layer of tissue that lines your belly area. You can even perform this type of dialysis at home. You can even perform many of your regular activities while the dialysis solution is “at work.”

Regardless of which type of therapy you have, you need to commit the time and effort to regular dialysis sessions. The frequency and length of each session is “dosed” on an individual basis, depending on your unique health needs.

What to expect on dialysis

Dialysis is a life-saving treatment, but there’s no denying that it can take some time to adjust to your therapy. These tips can help.

Make self-care a priority

Like any new routine, dialysis can throw a wrench into your regular routine. Taking time to de-stress through simple self-care activities is essential. Deep-breathing exercises, meditation, and simply taking time each day to engage in an activity you enjoy can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable with your therapy.

Follow your eating plan

People with CKD need to be careful of what they eat, focusing on foods that support kidneys without straining them. Our dietitians work with you to create a healthy eating plan featuring the foods and flavors you like.

Stay active

Regular physical activity is important for your health, and it also helps decrease stress. Try taking a daily walk, gardening, or looking for other activities, including bike riding or joining a gym. Ask our team for guidance before beginning any new routine to make sure it’s a good choice for you.

Set a schedule

Dialysis requires a time commitment, which can interfere with your established routine. Be flexible, and set a regular schedule to make it easier to plan activities around your dialysis. Use a journal, planner, or app to stay organized so that you feel focused and empowered.

Communicate with your providers

Our team is here to help you. Don’t hesitate to let us know about your concerns, questions, or worries. Open communication helps us provide you with the therapy you need to feel supported and get the most from your therapy and your life.

Join a support group

Dialysis support groups connect you with other people with similar experiences. Online and in-person groups can be a great way to find additional support and encouragement to keep you feeling positive and help you stay on track with treatment.

Find the support you need

Our diabetes management plan is designed to support the unique needs of dialysis patients, with a complete medical staff, dietitians, and social workers focused on improving your health and your quality of life. 

To find out more about dialysis and the resources we provide, call 313-960-6605 or book an appointment online with Dr. Saad and the Nephrocare MD LLC team in Dearborn, Michigan, today.