Chronic kidney failure entails the slow loss of kidney function. The kidneys play an essential role in filtering excess fluids and waste and extracting them in your urine. When chronic kidney disease is at an advanced stage, electrolytes, dangerous wastes, and fluid levels accumulate in your body. You might notice a few symptoms of the disease, but it becomes apparent when the kidney function is impaired.
The news that your kidneys have failed come as a shock. Even if you are aware that your kidneys have not been functioning well for some time now, a kidney failure diagnosis can be life-changing. Patients diagnosed with this condition require dialysis or a transplant to live. Most people will undergo dialysis, and adjusting to the treatment can be challenging. You have a lot to think about and adapt to the new routine of dialysis. Fortunately, you can make a few changes for chronic kidney disease management with the help of doctors, nurses, and your support system.
Learn
It might feel like information overload at first. But you need to learn more about kidney failure and dialysis. You need to learn about medication and how your body is likely to react to dialysis. It’s wise to listen to your body and consult your doctor as soon as you realize that something is not right as you undergo dialysis. When you learn about kidney failure and dialysis, it helps you to stay calm because you are not scared when a new thing happens to your body. When you are new to dialysis, a lot of changes happen to your body, which can be scary.
Depression and Anxiety
These feelings can come and go, and you sometimes cannot explain why you feel anxious or depressed. When you start dialysis treatment, you are likely to change your diet and daily routine. You are expected to undergo a myriad of feelings as you adjust to the new life and the dialysis process. You need to know that you are not alone on this journey, and you can talk to your doctor and find support groups.
Exercise
Exercise is an excellent way to improve your health, and you need it even if you are on dialysis. Patients who are on dialysis and exercise regularly feel better emotionally and physically. But exercise while on dialysis should not be painful or hard. You can consult your doctor about the appropriate exercises that will not cause pain or discomfort. When on dialysis, you can opt for low-impact exercises that will not pull stress on your joints, such as walking, stretching, swimming, and yoga.
Develop Good Habits
You need to have a low-salt and potassium diet to adjust to dialysis. When you start your dialysis, make sure that you eat right, follow the orders of your doctor, and take your medication correctly. The most important thing is to be positive and never give up even when the dialysis takes a toll on your body.
The dialysis machine carries out the functions of your kidney. Patients can be connected to a portable catheter bag or a large device based on the type of dialysis. These guidelines will help you as you adjust to this treatment option for kidney failure.
