YOUR FIRST DIALYSIS - WHAT TO EXPECT ? ADVICES

Your first dialysis is a major change—often accompanied by worry, fear, and many questions. You’re not alone. Thousands of people go through this same experience, and most of them successfully adapt to their new lifestyle.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect during your first dialysis session, how to prepare, how the treatment works, and how you might feel afterward.

Why Am I Starting Dialysis?

Dialysis is prescribed in cases of advanced chronic kidney disease, when the kidneys can no longer properly filter waste and excess fluids from the blood.

Your doctor may recommend starting dialysis if you experience:

Symptoms like swelling, nausea, high blood pressure, or fatigue
High levels of urea and creatinine in blood tests
An imbalance in electrolytes (such as potassium, sodium, phosphorus)

Before the First Session

Before your first dialysis, several steps are taken to prepare you:

Consultation with a nephrologist – Your doctor will explain why dialysis is needed and answer your questions.
Creating vascular access – Usually by forming an arteriovenous fistula in your arm, or placing a temporary catheter.
Scheduling your first session, and meeting the dialysis team.

📌 Tip: Bring any recent lab results, medical records, or discharge summaries with you.

What to Expect Upon Arrival at the Dialysis Center

Upon arriving at the dialysis center, the staff will guide you through the process:

You’ll register and have your weight, bloo
You may be seen briefly by a doctor.
You’ll be shown to a dialysis bed or reclining chair.

Wear comfortable clothes and bring a small bag with water, headphones, or something to read or watch. The session takes several hours.

How Does Dialysis Work?

Your arm will be cleaned and connected to the dialysis machine through your fistula or catheter.
Your blood will pass through a dialyzer (artificial kidney), which filters out toxins and extra fluid.
The treatment usually lasts about 4 hours.
You can rest, read, listen to music, or even nap during the session.

A trained medical team will monitor you at all times.

How Will I Feel After the Session?

It’s completely normal to feel:

A bit tired or weak
Mild headache or dizziness

Make sure to rest after the session and avoid intense physical activity on the same day.

Emotional and Psychological Aspects

Your first dialysis can feel overwhelming. That’s okay.

This is the beginning of a new phase that will help you feel better.
Many patients report improved well-being within the first few sessions.
Talk to someone — your doctor, a psychologist, or other patients. Shared experiences help.

Practical Tips for Your First Dialysis:

Eat a light meal before your session (unless advised otherwise).
Dress in loose comfortable clothing – it can feel cool in the dialysis room.
Bring headphones, a book, or something to do.
Communicate openly with the medical team – they are there to support you.

Conclusion

Your first dialysis is not an end – it’s a new beginning. With the right medical team, care, and mindset, dialysis can become part of your routine and help you feel better, stronger, and more stable.

YOUR FIRST DIALYSIS – WHAT TO EXPECT