In today’s fast-paced life, problems like poor diet, stress, lack of sleep and high blood pressure have a direct impact on the kidneys. The job of the kidney is to remove toxins and excess water from the body.
But when the kidneys get damaged by 80-90%, toxins start accumulating in the body and the condition becomes serious. In such a situation, the doctor advises the patient for dialysis or kidney transplant.
In conversation with Only My Health, kidney expert Dr. Kunal Gandhi says, ‘After dialysis, there are many changes in the daily routine of the patient. During dialysis, it takes several hours to remove toxins from the body, which can make the body feel tired. However, with proper diet, sleep and time management, a person can live a normal life. Dialysis is done two to three times a week, and lasts for 3 to 4 hours each time. For this reason the patient has to balance his work time and personal life.
Effect of dialysis on the body
During dialysis, not only are waste products removed from the body, but some essential minerals like potassium, calcium and sodium can also be reduced. Due to this the patient feels problems like fatigue, weakness and dizziness. Dr. Gandhi says that ‘fatigue is normal after dialysis, but it can be controlled by consuming nutritious food and adequate fluids.’ The patient should regularly follow the diet chart as per the doctor’s advice, which should include protein, fiber and low salt foods.
Changes on face and skin
Having dialysis for a long time causes changes in the mineral balance of the body, which can cause the skin tone to fade. According to doctors, ‘Dryness, itching or rashes on the skin are common problems due to dialysis. For this, moisturization and adequate hydration is necessary. Additionally, many patients complain of swelling or discoloration on the face, which can affect self-confidence.
Along with physical changes, dialysis also affects mental health. Situations like going to hospital several times a week, lack of time and fatigue can push a person towards stress or depression.
Doctors say that ‘a decrease in anxiety and self-esteem has been observed in patients undergoing dialysis for a long time. Emotional support from family and friends is very important at this time. Patients are advised to adopt activities like meditation, yoga, and light exercise to maintain mental peace and physical energy.
What is a better option than dialysis?
If a patient’s kidney condition continues to worsen, kidney transplant can be a permanent solution. Doctors say that after a successful transplant a person can live an almost normal life. ‘After kidney transplant, the patient has to take regular medicines and tests, but he can easily carry on with normal activities like working life and travelling.’