Starting Dialysis:
Preparing for Treatment
When you’re preparing for dialysis, knowing what to expect can help you get comfortable with your new treatment routine. Before starting dialysis, your doctor will help you understand your treatment options, and together you can choose the one that best fits your lifestyle. Your care team will also be here every step of the way to guide and support you on dialysis-from planning to training to learning how to thrive.
Choosing the dialysis option that’s right for you
Picking a dialysis option that fits your current lifestyle can help you keep up with the life you love—and stay your healthiest. Most people can choose any type of dialysis: home peritoneal dialysis, home hemodialysis, or in-center dialysis. Making a decision early can give you more time to prepare and help you feel more in control of your health.
Home peritoneal dialysis
With home peritoneal dialysis (PD), your blood is filtered using the lining of your abdomen, also called the peritoneum. There are no needles used during PD treatment, and your blood never leaves your body. You have the flexibility to do PD almost anywhere—in the comfort of your home, at work, or while traveling. Starting PD early may help you preserve remaining kidney function.
Home hemodialysis
In-center hemodialysis
Training and preparing for home dialysis treatment
5 things to know about home dialysis training
- Training for home dialysis is broken into sections, so you can go at your own pace. Training for home peritoneal dialysis takes about 2 weeks; training for home hemodialysis lasts 4-6 weeks.
- You’ll learn to complete treatment safely—with or without a care partner. If you choose to have a care partner, you’ll bring your partner with you to training.
- During training, you’ll prepare your home for treatment with the help of your care team. This includes learning how to organize and store home dialysis supplies.
- When you come to training, you’ll bring all of your medications in their bottles. You’ll also bring your glucometer, if applicable.
- Plan ahead, so you can be as comfortable as possible on training days. Wear loose clothing and bring a blanket, a book, and a healthy lunch or snack.
Find out if a transplant might be right for you
During training, you'll learn about the option of a kidney transplant. A successful kidney transplant is closest to natural kidney function and considered the best treatment for kidney failure. Your doctor can help you determine whether you’re a good candidate. Your eligibility for a transplant depends on your overall health, a good kidney donor match, and the right timing.
What to expect after your first dialysis treatment—and beyond
Like any new routine, starting dialysis can take some getting used to. Remember that your care team is here to support you—and looking after your health is worth it. If you have questions or experience side effects at any time throughout treatment, talk to your care team. It may also take some time for your body to adjust to your new dialysis routine—and once it does, you’ll start feeling better.
Complete your full dialysis session every time, as prescribed.
Making sure you finish every treatment will help you get the most benefit from
dialysis. Shortening your prescribed treatment time by even just a few minutes
will allow toxins and fluid to build up in your body—impacting your health and
how you feel.
Adjusting to peritoneal dialysis
- Feeling overly full—Because your belly is full of fluid during PD, you may need to get used to the sensation. Timing your treatments around meals may help.
- Weight gain—Some weight gain may come from fluid retention. The dialysate used in PD also contains sugar, which could lead to weight gain over time.
Learn more about what to expect on peritoneal dialysis
Adjusting to hemodialysis
- Nausea or abdominal cramps—Talk to your nurse if you’re feeling uncomfortable. You may need adjustments to your machine settings, your medications, or your prescribed treatment.
- Fatigue—You may feel tired when starting dialysis treatment. Over time, you’ll start to feel better.
- Low blood pressure—If you feel faint, warm, anxious, or sweaty, talk to your nurse. You may be experiencing low blood pressure during treatment.
Thriving on dialysis
How to feel your best while on dialysis
- Eat well and manage your fluids—Because dialysis works to achieve chemical balance and remove excess fluid, it’s important to eat well, limit sodium, and manage the amount of fluids you consume.
- Take all medications as prescribed—Working with a pharmacist who's specially trained in kidney disease can help ensure that all of your medications are working together and right for someone on dialysis.
- Protect yourself against infection—Avoiding infection of any kind will benefit your overall health. Talk to your nurse about proper access care and be sure to follow instructions on handwashing.
- Build up your support network—It’s important to have a strong network of family, friends, and care partners to encourage you as you start dialysis. Reach out to your loved ones and let them help you take the next steps in your treatment journey.
