How does the life of a dialysis patient change?

Dialysis patients usually experience a significant change in their daily routine and lifestyle. They need to spend several hours per week receiving treatment, which can greatly impact their work, social life, and overall well-being. They may also need to modify their diet and fluid intake to help manage their condition, leading to modifications in their daily eating habits and physical activities[1].

Each person may feel differently when they start dialysis. You might feel scared, overwhelmed, angry, or depressed. Emotions will usually shift over time as you adjust to dialysis. After they start dialysis, some people have more energy and feel like they think more clearly[2]. On dialysis, you have good days and bad days. It's an evolution more than anything else. You have to evolve your diet for you, there are times you feel full and uncomfortable, and times when you're more susceptible to infections. But many dialysis patients go on to live normal lives. However, you should know that dialysis does not cure kidney disease. Dialysis simply performs some of the functions of a healthy kidney[3].

Managing daily dialysis involves several key steps, including adhering to the treatment schedule and performing all necessary tasks, including the preparation and administration of prescribed medications, monitoring of vital signs, and reporting any changes in symptoms or health to a healthcare provider. In addition, patients are usually advised to follow a special diet and exercise regimen and maintain a strict fluid intake to help prevent complications[1].

Patients' general quality of life improves over the transition from pre-dialysis to dialysis, which remains stable at 12 weeks after starting dialysis. However, the quality of life of their partners is initially impaired[4]. It is important for the well-being of the patient to find ways to combine hobbies and social contacts with dialysis. Patients can talk to their physician or healthcare professional about how to continue to integrate these into their everyday life[5].

In conclusion, the life of a dialysis patient changes significantly, and they need to adjust their daily routine and lifestyle. However, with proper management and support, many dialysis patients go on to live normal lives.

Citations:

[1] https://doctormaryam.org/2023/06/25/how-does-the-life-of-a-dialysis-patient-change/

[2] https://choosingdialysis.org/CommonDialysisTypes/LifestyleChanges.aspx

[3] https://abramsonseniorcare.org/resources/senior-health-resources/living-with-dialysis-the-first-months/

[4] https://bmcnephrol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12882-020-01819-4

[5] https://www.freseniusmedicalcare.com/en/living-with-dialysis

By Perplexity at https://www.perplexity.ai/search/01ba5b1e-2be3-4038-bd35-5bb25047e0bc