5 Important Dos and Don'ts for Dialysis Patients: A Guide to Staying Healthy and Feeling Your Best

Dialysis is a life-saving treatment that helps remove waste and excess fluids from the body when the kidneys are no longer functioning properly. For those who require dialysis, it is essential to understand the dos and don'ts that come with this treatment. In this article, we will discuss the most important things that dialysis patients should and shouldn't do to stay healthy and feel their best.

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Dos:

Follow your dialysis schedule: 

Dialysis treatment is typically done three times a week, and it is crucial to follow your schedule to ensure that your body is receiving the appropriate treatment. Missing a treatment can lead to complications and health risks.

Monitor your fluid intake: 

Fluid restriction is common among dialysis patients because the kidneys can no longer remove excess fluid from the body. It is essential to monitor your fluid intake to avoid fluid overload, which can lead to swelling, high blood pressure, and heart failure.

Eat a kidney-friendly diet: 

A kidney-friendly diet is low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. Following a kidney-friendly diet can help prevent complications such as high blood pressure, bone disease, and heart disease.

Take your medications: 

Dialysis patients often require multiple medications to manage their health conditions. It is essential to take your medications as prescribed to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome.

Exercise regularly: 

Regular exercise can help improve blood flow, muscle strength, and overall health. Dialysis patients should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise three times a week.

Don'ts:

Eat high-potassium foods: 

High-potassium foods, such as bananas, oranges, and tomatoes, can be dangerous for dialysis patients because their kidneys can no longer remove excess potassium from the body. Eating too much potassium can lead to heart problems and even be life-threatening.

Drink too much fluid: 

Dialysis patients should monitor their fluid intake to avoid fluid overload. Drinking too much fluid can lead to swelling, high blood pressure, and heart failure.

Skip dialysis treatments: 

Skipping a dialysis treatment can lead to complications such as high potassium levels, fluid overload, and even death.

Smoke or use tobacco products: 

Smoking and using tobacco products can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, which are already common complications among dialysis patients.

Consume alcohol: 

Alcohol consumption can be dangerous for dialysis patients because it can affect the way the body processes and eliminates fluids. It can also increase the risk of liver damage and other health complications.

In conclusion, 

following the dos and don'ts of dialysis treatment is crucial for maintaining good health and avoiding complications. Dialysis patients should work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their individual needs and lifestyle. By following these guidelines, patients can live a healthy and fulfilling life despite the challenges of kidney disease.

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