Dialysis is a common and most effective treatment for those individuals who are suffering from kidney failure. It is a procedure by which excess water, solutes and toxins are removed from the blood when the kidneys are no longer working.
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment; however, it can also be life-changing. Many aspects of the body, including our physical and mental health are greatly impacted by the procedure. But it does not mean that you cannot continue leading a fulfilling life. By adopting a proactive approach, you can maintain a high quality of life while still undergoing dialysis treatment.
In this blog, Dr. Amitabha Saha, the best kidney specialist in Kolkata as well as a trained critical care physician gave some necessary tips on diet and lifestyle adjustment to live well and enjoy the activities you used to before diagnosis with the chronic condition.
Here are the steps which make the dialysis process easier to deal with.
Engaging in physical activities during dialysis is essential to maintain a normal body weight and boost your mood. However, before doing any exercise make sure to consult your doctor especially if you have diabetes and heart disease. Exercising on dialysis can be as simple like walking and jogging as well as simple indoor activities like yoga which can be an effective adjuvant therapy.
As a patient undergoing dialysis treatment, you are required to make certain adjustments in what you eat and drink. This is because your kidneys are no longer able to filter wastes and toxins from the body. It is to be noted that dietary precautions vary from person to person. Also, patients are required to limit their fluid intake but at the same time remain hydrated, says Dr. Saha, the best kidney specialist in Kolkata. You can consult a renal dietician who will prepare a diet chart that meets your nutritional needs in addition to following your kidney doctor.
It is normal to feel overwhelmed and depressed to adjust to living your life with kidney failure. However, you need to be emotionally strong to feel more energetic and cope with the treatment. To bring positive changes in your mindset, you can pursue the hobbies or activities that you used to enjoy before. If you are struggling to deal with the emotional challenges, you can consult a professional therapist who will help you to feel better.
Reducing and preventing dialysis-related stress is essential to avoid negative impacts on health and become more responsive to treatment. Develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress during the treatment. You can indulge in relaxation techniques, spend time with your family and friends or stick to a sleep routine. Make sure to set limits for your tasks to avoid getting fatigued.
Living well on dialysis requires a positive approach. Remember that you are not alone who is having dialysis treatment. There are a lot of individuals who have chronic kidney disorders but still lead an improved quality of life. Ensure that do not miss or shorten your treatment plan. If you need any guidance, you can always contact Dr. Amitabha Saha, the best kidney specialist in Kolkata who has 22+ years of experience in managing renal disorders.