Dialysis treatment can lead to significant changes in your daily routine and sometimes be difficult to adjust to. Having patience with yourself and recognizing that you are facing a substantial life change is important. To counter potentially overwhelming feelings, it can be helpful to remind yourself of the necessity of your treatment and think of the benefits it provides for your health. Despite the clear benefits, dialysis is a treatment that requires time to get used to. As you navigate the process, consider the following tips for adjusting to your dialysis routine.
Tips for Adjusting To Your Dialysis Routine
Dialysis treatment leads to a considerable alteration to your established daily routine. Adjusting to any new routine can take time, but even more so when it is related to your health, so it is important to be patient as you navigate the process. There are several ways to ensure the adjustment to your dialysis routine and the routine itself are smooth and effective. Consider the following tips to effectively adjust to your kidney dialysis treatment.
Maintain Recommend Fluid Levels
Dialysis patients need to follow certain fluid limits. It is important not to go over your fluid limit, as drinking too much of any liquid can lead to fluid overload, which is characterized by high blood pressure, swelling, shortness of breath, and a myriad of other adverse effects. That said, it is just as critical to drink enough fluids so that you remain adequately hydrated. Staying hydrated comes with several benefits, including facilitating your treatment and reducing discomfort afterward. Speak with a nephrologist about your daily fluid intake to ensure you are getting the right amount of fluids.
Stay Active
One of the most common issues associated with dialysis is fatigue. Though it may seem counterintuitive, light exercise can actually help combat fatigue by improving energy levels and enhancing your mood. Light activities, such as walking or strength training, are highly beneficial for reversing symptoms of daytime fatigue. Start slow and listen to your body as you navigate what works for you. Talk with a doctor who knows your health history and consider their recommendations.
Maintain a Schedule
Allowing for consistency in your daily routine is necessary for your dialysis treatment to be as effective as possible. Consistency will help your body properly adjust to the treatment. In fact, research has shown that a daily routine during treatment can ensure more positive patient outcomes. If you are doing at-home treatments, set alerts to ensure you start at the same time every day. If you complete your treatments in the office, schedule your appointments in advance and put them in your planner so you do not forget. Building consistent habits can benefit your dialysis treatment and your life overall.
Consume a Balanced Diet
Your diet plays a major role in your overall health. This is especially true if you have kidney disease. Eating a nutritious and balanced diet can ease and improve your dialysis treatment. Consider increasing the amount of protein included in your diet. High-quality protein—such as lean meats, eggs, and fish—will keep your blood protein levels at optimal levels and support your overall health.
In addition to considering what you should eat, you must be aware that there are several foods to be cautious of. Specifically, you should limit your intake of potassium, phosphorus, and sodium because these nutrients are difficult for your kidneys to process. Speak with your doctor or a dietician to be sure you are eating the right foods and getting the nutrients you need to maintain your health.
Plan Ahead
As you adjust to your dialysis routine, you may experience change, such as increased tiredness or stress. Combat this by planning ahead so you are comfortable and ready for whatever comes your way. Be sure to always have a healthy, dialysis-approved snack on hand and make efforts to ensure your daily comfort. Experiment with what works for you to make the treatment as nondisruptive as possible.
Kidney Dialysis Treatment
If you are concerned about your kidney health, contact Dr. Gura and his team today to schedule an appointment!