Between frequent doctor visits, daily medication, and more, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) deal with many challenges. Creating a healthy lifestyle can help manage CKD, prevent complications, and delay progression if you are in the earlier stages of the disease. Here are seven self-care tips that can help you live a better life with CKD. 

Track Your Medications

Most CKD patients also have other underlying health conditions such as diabetes and/or high blood pressure. Multiple health conditions often mean multiple medications to take. While it is not always an easy task, it is important to take your medications as prescribed. 

Today’s technology makes tracking your medications easier than ever. Try using a free mobile application, such as Medisafe and Mango Health, to ensure that you don’t miss a dose.

Create a Meal Plan

Managing CKD, diabetes, and/or hypertension usually requires following a heart-healthy diet. The majority of CKD patients are encouraged to follow a low-sodium, or low-salt, diet. As CKD progresses, alternating your intake of other nutrients like protein, potassium, and phosphorus may be warranted. Receiving diet education from your doctor or registered dietitian, as well as creating a meal plan each week, will help keep you on track with a well-balanced diet.

Get Moving 

As we grow older, physical activity is necessary to prevent injuries, lower blood pressure, manage blood sugar, and relieve stress. Thirty minutes of house cleaning, walking, yoga, or mowing the yard are some ways to stay healthy and strong. Please speak to your doctor before starting any new exercise regimens, to ensure their safety for your body. 

Find Ways to De-Stress

Too much stress may affect your blood sugar, blood pressure, and increase the risk of depression. Work on finding ways to de-stress from life’s worries. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation, listen to gentle music, or start a new hobby to help manage stress and relieve tension. 

Prioritize Sleep

Following a regular sleep schedule and getting enough sleep each night is important for your physical and mental health. Try to ensure you are incorporating all of the other self-care tips on the list each day to promote good sleep. If you continue to struggle, speak to your doctor about medicinal options to help you fall–and stay–asleep.   

Build Your Support Network

A good, strong support network can make a huge difference on those days you don’t feel so great. Some people find relief in talking to friends, family, or a counselor. You can also look to join a support group, or sign up with a peer mentor from the National Kidney Foundation. 

See if You’re Eligible for Medicare

If you are under age 65, you may not think you qualify for Medicare. However, patients who need regular dialysis or a kidney transplant may be eligible for coverage. To find out if you’re eligible, contact the Social Security Administration.

 *Cafasso, J. (2022, March 31). 7 Self-Care Tips for Chronic Kidney Disease. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/kidney-disease/self-care-tips-chronic-kidney-disease#5