According to the American Kidney Fund, almost 40 million Americans have kidney disease with over 800,000 of them in kidney failure. The numbers also show that more than 1 in 3 of the people with kidney failure are Black. When your kidneys aren’t working properly, you need dialysis to clear the build-up of waste from your body. However, there are a few things you need to know to ensure that you remain healthy and get the most out of your dialysis.
10 Helpful Tips For Doing Dialysis
1. Rest Well
It’s typical for people to be tired after going through dialysis. Getting the rest you need will help you recover more easily and may reduce the likelihood of side effects after the treatment.
2. Get The Right Proteins
You may have changed your diet after being diagnosed with kidney disease but you also have to increase the amount of protein you eat. Proteins are known to help with healing wounds and boosting your immune system. The best proteins for you include chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs.
3. Watch Your Fluids
Fluid retention can be an issue with kidney disease so you need to be careful with how much you consume. It’s best to find out from your doctor how much water or other beverages you’re allowed to drink.
4. Stick To Your Medical Regimen
Conditions such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure can be associated with kidney disease. It’s critical to stick with your medical regimen when you’re on dialysis as this helps it to be more effective.
5. Manage Your Stress
Uncontrolled stress can affect your blood pressure as well as make you more prone to developing certain chronic conditions. Doctors recommend keeping your stress levels low as it can affect your overall health.
6. Manage Your Time
Dialysis can take up to six hours depending on what your doctor recommends and the recovery period afterward. Since it can’t be rushed, you have to ensure that you make enough time in your schedule to accommodate this. You’ll likely need to talk to your employer about taking time off.
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7. Keep Sodium And Potassium In Check
With your kidney function compromised, it will be difficult to regulate the potassium and sodium in your blood. It’s best to avoid salty foods and keep your daily intake to half a teaspoon or less. High-potassium foods not to eat include nuts, seeds, lentils, whole grains, oranges, bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, and avocados.
8. Don’t Skip Dialysis
Your doctor’s recommendation for a dialysis schedule is based on your needs. This can change depending on
