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Do You Get Extremely Cold When Doing Dialysis?

This question came up in a support group meeting. Are you allowed to have electric blankets or anything like that when you are doing dialysis? Some people are extremely cold and don't know what to do. What are some things you can suggest to stay warm at this time? We would like to hear your suggestions. Diane (Team Member)

  1. Many chronic kidney disease patients have anemia. You also feel very tired. Anemia can also make you feel cold. Anemia is the result of kidney disease not producing as much heat in their bodies. We have fewer red blood cells which carry oxygen through the body. Does this ever happen to you? We would like to hear from you. Diane (Team Member)

    1. Hell yes! Which is the total opposite of what I used to be like. I had to live within a controlled environment at approx 72 degrees always

      1. Good Afternoon. Im not on dialysis but I do know from my dad’s end stage renal failure how cold those rooms were. I hate the cold and I would be miserable if it was me. I would have to bring in a huge comforter and wear sweats. lol. Winter is not my friend and dialysis wouldn’t be either. I’m sorry you have to endure that but thankful that it is providing you lifesaving measures. Have you found any ways to navigate the cold? Thank you for sharing and please ask questions when you have them and we will try to get answers if we can. We are always here for venting and support. Keep fighting the good fight kidney warrior 💚. Cindy (Team Member)

    2. I really hate dialysis. I have numerous other illnesses and analysts in pain even when laying down in bed or trying to get out of bed for crying out loud. It's ridiculous
      They said dialysis would make me feel better so it's been around 6 months and I'm still waiting for it to begin.
      I feel like a huge burden to those around me and know that I can only handle so much... I am tired of being a problem and or concern to someone else who says it's fine, while secretly resenting me for making them feel Obligated to help care for me in a long term situation.

      1. I am so sorry you are feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. It’s a lot to have CKD on top of any other illnesses. I truly believe dialysis isn’t for the faint of heart. I’m not on dialysis but have made the decision, as of right now, not to have it. It scares the death out of me. I also understand your feeling about being a burden. I’ve often thought about that living alone what would happen. I know if things get bad I might not be able to live alone and then what would happen to me? I’m sure your loved ones who are caring for you really are concerned and care greatly about you. The best thing you can do is have an honest conversation with them and share your feelings. It’s better to get that out in the open instead of keeping it all in. You may find out you’ve been worrying about something you never needed to worry about. I would also talk to your nephrologist about your dialysis expectations and that you feel you are not getting the relief you anticipated. Communication is key. Make him/her explain it all to you so you fully understand. The other thing you may find helpful is maybe some counseling where you can share your frustrations and concerns. Some insurance companies will pay for this. I hope this has helped and given you some encouragement. We are fighting a hard battle but keep up the good fight kidney warrior. 💚 Cindy (Team Member) Here is an I found I hope you can find some encouragement in it.
        https://chronic-kidney-disease.net/living/forums-experience

      2. , my youngest son said that the pain can bring you to your knees. I am so sorry you are going through this.

        I can only speak for myself, but I am a caregiver to my father. It's hard work. One thing I want to add is if you think that person is hesitant to help you. Let them know. It's important to acknowledge their feelings. Maybe you can talk about a solution? Let them know that this is a lot and you know they are overwhelmed. The one thing that helped me was to get outside help to clean, cook, do shopping, etc. Try and work together. We are here if you need us. Let us know how you are doing. Diane (Team Member)

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