MYTHS AND FACTS FOR DIALYSIS TREATMENT
Q: The only option to receive dialysis treatment is to travel to the center at least three times a week for hours. Is it right?
A: Dialysis can be done in many ways: You can have dialysis in a hospital or outpatient clinic, or in your own home. Hemodialysis in the dialysis center is performed three days a week for 3-4 hours each time. The other option is peritoneal dialysis at home. Educate yourself about each option and talk to your healthcare professional about which type of dialysis is best for you.
Q: Is Dialysis procedure painful?
A: Dialysis treatment doesn’t have to be painful. If you feel pain during or after, notify your attending physician or team. Some patients may experience a drop in blood pressure that may lead to nausea, vomiting, headache or cramps. However, by making your diet and fluid restrictions, these types of side effects can be avoided.
Q: Is dialysis absolutely needed to live?
A: Dialysis is a treatment that helps clean your blood of fluids and toxins when your kidneys can no longer function properly. The need to undergo dialysis may sound overwhelming and scary, but dialysis treatment allows you to live.
Q: Can Dialysis patients travel?
A: You can travel on dialysis! But this is some necessary planning. Before your trip, you must make an appointment for dialysis treatment at another center and submit information about your medical treatment and history. The dialysis journey means being prepared – click here to learn more.
Q: Should I stop working? Dialysis patients don’t have the time or energy to maintain normal life.
A: Many dialysis patients continue to work or study. Some of you took time off when you first started dialysis treatment and returned to work or school after getting used to the process.
Q: As a dialysis patient, you worry that you will be a burden on your family.
A: Many people with chronic illness feel this way at some point. Your role in your family may change over time, but it’s important to remember that you have more than just your kidney or dialysis treatment! Seek help when you need it and help others when you can. Be open and honest with your loved ones about how you feel and give yourself the space and time you need to adjust to dialysis treatment. Once you adjust to your ‘new normal’ of dialysis, you will find that you will be able to recover to take on new roles and responsibilities at home.