When a kidney disease patient reaches end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and/or experiences kidney failure, it can be vital to start dialysis. While dialysis is a life-saving treatment plan, it is also life-altering and requires some lifestyle changes. Learn six tips from other dialysis patients on how they coped with their “new normal” on dialysis.*

1.  Learn as much as you can. One dialysis patient, Scott W., believes, “The more you know, the calmer you will be.” Through asking questions and research, you can learn more about kidney disease, dialysis, medications, and your body. 

Another dialysis patient, Erin S., recalls her initial experience: “I learned as much as I could. Looked up the side effects of my meds so I wasn’t so scared when new things would happen to me daily. When you’re new at this and your body is changing, it can be really scary if you don’t know what’s happening.”

2.  Lean on others for support. Most dialysis patients say they rely on faith, family, friends, other dialysis patients, and/or healthcare workers for strength and guidance. Support groups like the Renal Support Network also give dialysis patients access to advice and education from others who have gone through similar experiences.

3.  Develop healthy habits. Following your dialysis orders, eating kidney-friendly foods, and taking your medications is a lifestyle, and it’s important to embrace the lifestyle early, according to some dialysis patients. Exercise is also important as is complying with your doctor’s limitations on fluid intake. While it may be challenging in the beginning, it can help you maintain your quality of life and prevent you from getting ill.

4.  Stay present—and take one day at a time. Life on dialysis will have its “ups and downs”. Dialysis patient, Toney G., says, “Truly, one day at a time. There are good days and really bad days, but I know that tomorrow will bring possibly a perfect day. I have those, too.” 

5.  Keep a positive attitude. While it can be difficult to always have a positive attitude, do not let the negative feelings rule your life. Dialysis patient, Erin S., states, “I always knew not only would I survive but would stay positive and thankful every day for being alive. I did not allow myself to feel sorry for myself or to question ‘why me’. 

6.  Self-advocate. Many dialysis patients quickly learn the importance of being active participants in their care. Dialysis patient, Beth H., kept up with every blood draw, took her own blood pressure and weighed herself every day to keep up with the new lifestyle adjustments, allowing her to more easily catch any arising problems.

Access the American Kidney Fund’s educational tool for more and tips for adjusting to your “new normal.”

*6 tips to help you adjust to dialysis. (2016, October 18). American Kidney Fund (AKF). https://www.kidneyfund.org/kidney-today/6-tips-to-help-you-adjust-to-dialysis.html