My Journey Through Dialysis: Navigating the Experience with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Introduction

As I sit down to write this post, I’m reminded of where my journey with chronic kidney disease (CKD) began. My first blog covered my diagnosis and the road that led me to dialysis—a journey filled with uncertainty, fear, and hope. Now, I want to share my experience of navigating dialysis, not just as a medical treatment, but as a life-altering experience that requires resilience, understanding, and an unyielding sense of perseverance.

I remember my first dialysis session vividly—the sterile smell of the clinic, the constant beeping of machines, and that cold feeling in my veins as the blood returned to my body. It felt like life was being measured in moments of connection to a dialysis machine. But what I’ve learned since is that dialysis, while daunting, can be managed, and with the right steps, you can regain a sense of control over your life.

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What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time. This can lead to various health issues, including the buildup of waste and toxins in the body. Understanding CKD is crucial for anyone affected by it. According to the National Kidney Foundation and the Mayo Clinic, CKD often goes undiagnosed until the later stages, emphasizing the importance of regular kidney health check-ups, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes or hypertension. It’s important to know that while CKD is serious, it’s manageable with the right treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and a comprehensive understanding of kidney health.

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What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for those whose kidneys can no longer filter waste from the blood. There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis, which filters blood through a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a fluid is used to remove toxins from the body. I have undergone hemodialysis, requiring regular visits to the dialysis center. The treatment can be daunting at first, but understanding its purpose helps ease the process.

to read more about dialysis and its types, visit National Kidney Foundation.

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Preparing for Dialysis: What I Wish I Knew

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that preparation makes all the difference. Dialysis isn’t just something you walk into—it’s a process that demands physical, emotional, and mental readiness. The day of my first dialysis session was nerve-wracking. If you’re about to start dialysis, here are a few things you can do to prepare:

• Wearing comfortable clothing: Dialysis sessions can take a few hours, so it’s best to wear loose and comfy clothes.
• Bring entertainment: Books, music, or a tablet can make the time pass quickly.

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Managing Hypertension During Dialysis: A Personal Tip

If you’re like me and on hypertensive medications, it’s important to adjust your dose the day before dialysis. I take 10 mg of Amlodipine daily, but a day before my dialysis, I drop it to 5 mg, and on the day of dialysis, I don’t take it at all. Why? My blood pressure (BP) tends to drop significantly during dialysis (hypotension), leading to fatigue, dizziness, and sometimes fainting spells. If your BP doesn’t dip as mine does, consult your doctor about continuing your medication. A BP range of 140/90 mm/Hg is acceptable on dialysis days.

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Monitoring Sugar Levels Before Dialysis

If you’re diabetic, checking your sugar levels before each session is crucial. I’ve learned this the hard way, as my blood sugar would often dip dangerously low during treatment, leaving me shaky, sweaty, and weak. To avoid hypoglycemia (low sugar), I recommend having something filling and nutritious at least 30 minutes before dialysis. This doesn’t just help stabilize your sugar but also gives your body the energy it needs to endure the session. Eating during dialysis isn’t just a choice—it’s a necessity, especially if you experience nausea or hypotension. It’s a small but significant habit that has made all the difference in how I feel during treatment.

Mentally preparing for the process can ease some anxiety. For me, knowing I was taking steps toward better health helped.

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What to Expect During a Dialysis Session

My first session was overwhelming, but once I understood the process, it became more manageable. Here’s what typically happens during a hemodialysis session:

• Arrival and check-in: You’ll be weighed, and your vital signs will be checked.
• Setting up: A nurse will connect you to the dialysis machine through your access point (fistula, graft, or catheter).
• The treatment: Blood will be drawn, filtered, and then returned to your body. The process lasts 3–4 hours.
• Finishing up: Once complete, you’ll be disconnected from the machine and monitored for a few minutes before heading home.

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Coping with Side Effects of Dialysis

Dialysis isn’t without its side effects. Fatigue is the most common, but for me, it goes beyond just feeling tired. I often experience low blood pressure, headaches, low blood sugar, excessive sweating, and extreme fatigue during or after my sessions. Over time, I’ve learned ways to cope, and I hope these tips will help you too:

• Fatigue: Dialysis is exhausting, and the fatigue can feel overwhelming. After each session, I schedule time to rest and sleep, as I have found that is the best remedy for the exhaustion that follows.
• Low Blood Pressure: Monitoring your BP closely before and after dialysis is crucial. If you experience low BP during treatment, talk to your nephrologist about adjusting your medication, as I did.
• Headaches: These can sometimes be a result of fluid shifts during dialysis. Staying hydrated before your session (within the limits your doctor advises) and taking regular breaks during treatment can help minimize headaches.
• Low Sugar: As mentioned, checking your blood sugar before dialysis is essential. If you’re on medication for diabetes, ensure you have a nutritious meal before treatment to help maintain your energy levels.
• Sweating: It’s one of those uncomfortable side effects that many of us deal with. Wearing light, breathable clothing and carrying a small towel can help manage excessive sweating.

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Understanding Your Dialysis Access Point

One of the scariest parts of starting dialysis is the access point—the physical link between you and the machine. When I first started, I had a permanent catheter placed in my chest. Later, I transitioned to a fistula, which is the gold standard for long-term dialysis.

• Femoral Catheter: Used in emergencies, this is inserted into a vein in the groin and provides quick access but is typically not used for long-term treatment. This is always the first port for dialysis and usually lasts for 1-4 weeks maximum.
• Perma Cath (Permanent Catheter): After the removal of the femoral catheter, a permanent catheter is placed. This was my initial access point, and while it’s a temporary solution, it’s often necessary when you’re starting dialysis urgently. The catheter is placed in a large vein, usually in your neck or chest, and allows for immediate dialysis. It’s not ideal for long-term use due to the higher risk of infection, but for many of us, it’s a starting point.
• Fistula: A fistula is created by connecting a vein and artery in your arm. Over time, the vein grows stronger, allowing for easier access during dialysis. It’s a more durable option and offers fewer complications, but it does require time to mature after the surgery—usually 6 to 12 weeks. The fistula is placed on your non-dominant arm, and it becomes your lifeline. I remember the constant buzzing sensation in my arm, a reminder that this connection was keeping me alive.
• Graft: If your veins aren’t strong enough for a fistula, a graft may be used. This involves placing a synthetic tube between an artery and a vein, creating a stronger access point. While grafts can be used sooner than fistulas (usually within 2 to 3 weeks), they can be prone to infection or clotting.

To read more about dialysis access visit Azura Vascular Care

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Mental and Emotional Health During Dialysis

Dialysis can take a toll not only on your body but also on your mental health. Some days, the weight of everything felt too much. Here are ways to manage those feelings:

• Build a support system: Whether it’s friends, family, or a support group, having people to talk to makes a huge difference.
• Seek professional help: If emotional struggles feel overwhelming, a therapist can help you navigate them.

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Creating a New Routine Around Dialysis

One of the biggest challenges I faced was restructuring my life around dialysis treatments. Here’s what worked for me:

• Time management: I started scheduling appointments on my less busy days to balance work and dialysis.
• Prioritize rest: Dialysis can be draining, so plan downtime after each session to recover.

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Dialysis Is Not the End: It’s a New Chapter

Dialysis may feel like a monumental challenge, and in many ways, it is. But with time, it becomes a part of your life that you manage, rather than something that defines you. For me, each session is a reminder of my strength and resilience. Yes, there are days when I feel drained, and the weight of it all feels too much. But there are also days when I walk out of the dialysis center with hope and a renewed sense of purpose.

It’s okay to feel scared, frustrated, or sad. It’s okay to cry. But remember that you are not alone. There is a community of us, navigating the same journey, sharing the same struggles, and celebrating the same victories. You are stronger than you think and will find your way through this.

I hope this guide offers you comfort and clarity if you’re just starting dialysis. And if you’ve been on dialysis for some time, I hope my experiences resonate with yours. Please comment below with your experiences, tips, or questions. Let’s keep this conversation going because our strength lies in our shared stories.

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Conclusion

As I wrap up this post, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have walked this journey with me. Your support, understanding, and shared experiences mean the world. If you’re navigating your path with CKD and dialysis, I hope my story offers some comfort and insight. Remember, you are stronger than you know, and together, we can continue to fight against chronic kidney disease