Tell us about your symptom and treatment experience. Take our survey here.

caret icon Back to all discussions

What were some of the biggest adjustments to make to your lifestyle when starting dialysis?

I have several family members on dialysis, so I got many different answers. The number one thing that stuck in my mind is the number of medications you have to take daily. I believe my son takes 20 or more a day. The next thing would be the fact that you have to change your diet so drastically.

What lifestyle changes have you made that have changed your life?

  1. DIET IS paramount. I couldn’t eat and drink certain things with potassium or sodium or even salty foods for high blood pressure, but another thing I think is important is having a routine, depending on what treatment you do; I did hemodialysis three times a week for 4 hours. I think had the weekend free so I made sure that I tried my best when I had the energy to do something even socialise with friends or start a new show. Having a normal routine within your dialysis to feel like I had something else outside just treatment.




    Thanks Sabad
    (team member)

    1. Not allowing my pets in my bedroom. This was a big change for me. Keeping everything clean and dust free, including curtains and bedding.

      1. I have two very large shepherds. I've trained them to stay out of my bedroom which is where I do my home manual PD. It was quite an adjustment not sleeping with my Lilla. But my health is very important to me and I need a safe, quiet space to take care of myself. With time and patience we can all get through it together!!

      2. Good Morning. I can’t imagine how much work it must be to keep everything clean and sanitized. There is so much to take care of to be safe doing your PD. I’m glad you were able to retrain your dogs to stay out of your bedroom and I know you must miss their comfort while doing the PD. Is PD the only form of dialysis you’ve done? What made you decide on PD over Hemo?
        Keep fighting the good fight kidney warrior 💚 Cindy (Team Member)

    2. That to much work for me

      Please read our rules before posting.