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Info on Dialysis

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Kidney Diseases & Disorders
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Posted 3/30/2015 3:38 PM (GMT 0)
Hello,

I am new to this forum and have joined it because my mother is having CKD for the last few years. Can someone give me information on life with dialysis. Does the body completely become dependent on dialysis once we start it? If we start it does it have to continue forever or are there instances when it is not required. How painful is it?
Posted 9/21/2015 10:11 PM (GMT 0)
Hello Tanu,

I have been on dialysis since July 23rd.I have been diabetic for the past 10 years.I dialysis 3 times a week 4 hours a day in a center.I will be on dialysis until I leave this earth.Due to other health issues including diabetes I have opted not to be put on the transplant list.Putting a healthy kidney in my unhealthy body would be a waste and I feel someone with less issues should have a better chance.Everyone's situation is different.Some people are on dialysis for a short amount of time others for years.If your Mom's doctor is talking dialysis please go with her and ask him/her these questions.also the internet is a great resource for dialysis questions along with this website.I knew I was going to have to go on dialysis..I read so much that my head almost exploded LOL.It was not something I would have chosen and wasn't going to until my doctor told me if I chose not I had 6 weeks to live.The crap got real(excuse my language).My legs were swollen and I was tired and short of breath(symptoms of CKD).If your Mom's doctor is talking dialysis they will send her to classes to explain the processes and options for dialysis.I did things backwards because I went on dialysis first then got education LOL.I'm still learning.I have a reality bites moment everyday thinking of what I have to look forward to the remainder of my life.Luckily I have supportive and loving friends and family and a wonderful staff at the dialysis center to help and encourage me.Also I have met a nice group of fellow patients at the center to talk and vent to.It's not picnic by any means but it is tolerable.You're a good daughter for being concerned and wanting to help her..Good Luck
Posted 9/23/2015 3:36 AM (GMT 0)
Hey! I was on dialysis for 3 years before I had a successful kidney transplant! As far as pain, the worst part is getting stuck with 2 14 or 15 gauge needles. The pain is 10 seconds or less. If you aren't careful with fluids once you get restricted...pulling off excess fluids (your kidneys can no longer get rid of) will cause horrible cramping. Like a Charlie horse times 5-10 depending on the pain tolerance! You will always be on dialysis unless your kidneys recover function or you get a kidney transplant. If you decide to go the transplant route, you will go through a lot of testing through a transplant hospital to make sure you're healthy enough to get a kidney transplant! If you are a diabetic ( I have forgotten which type ) and need a kidney… You can get a kidney and pancreas transplant at the same time.
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