Common causes of acute kidney failure include injury, blood clots, urethral blockages, severe dehydration, drug overdose, alcohol abuse, and infection. Symptoms of kidney failure include urination changes (such as producing little or no urine), fatigue or sluggish movements, metallic taste in your mouth, pain between your ribs and hips, seizures, and swelling due to water retention, especially in your legs, ankles and feet.
While treating the underlying cause, you’ll receive medication to help control your fluid levels and blood potassium.
High-protein foods include red meat, poultry, and eggs. Instead of these, you’d need to eat more fruits, vegetables, and foods that are high in fiber, like brown rice, lentils, and raspberries. [4] X Research source You’ll also need to swap high-potassium foods, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes, for low-potassium options, such as apples, cabbage, grapes, green beans, and strawberries. [5] X Research source Always read the label on prepackaged and processed foods to make sure you’re not eating things with high amounts of sodium.
In hemodialysis, blood is pumped through a filtration machine. You can get hemodialysis at a dialysis center or learn to do it at home. Your doctor will need to implant a fistula in your arm, which is a passage that allows blood to pass to the machine. [8] X Research source In peritoneal dialysis, a machine pumps a cleansing fluid into your belly, then pumps the fluid out after the filtration process is finished. Peritoneal dialysis is usually administered at home. Your doctor will need to place a catheter in your belly to allow for the fluid exchange. [9] X Research source The filtration process can take several hours. Depending on the type of dialysis, you’ll need it several times a week or every day. Typically, hemodialysis occurs 3 to 5 times per week. Peritoneal dialysis is often administered daily.
If you have trouble covering the remainder of dialysis expenses, you can apply for financial aid through the American Kidney Fund: http://www. kidneyfund. org/financial-assistance/.
If you have trouble covering the remainder of dialysis expenses, you can apply for financial aid through the American Kidney Fund: http://www. kidneyfund. org/financial-assistance/.
Home dialysis is convenient, but can be more expensive. Additionally, in the event of a complication, such as an air bubble or bleeding, you won’t have trained professionals present who can quickly respond.
Some people also find it helpful to talk to other patients at dialysis centers. Sharing your experiences with someone in similar circumstances might help you adjust.
Healthy carbohydrates (fruits, veggies, and whole-grain pasta) instead of proteins (red meat, poultry, and eggs) Low-potassium foods (apples, grapes, and green beans) instead of high-potassium foods (bananas, oranges, and potatoes) Lower sodium and fat consumption Smaller portion sizes
You can also track one down on the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network: https://optn. transplant. hrsa. gov/members/member-directory. Select “Transplant Centers by Organ” and “Kidney,” then select your state or region.
You might be ineligible if you have serious heart disease, cancer, or a chronic infection, or if you smoke. If you’re a transplant candidate, you’ll be added to a waitlist. Wait times depend on numerous factors, but the average wait is 3 to 5 years. [16] X Research source
Instead of asking someone point blank, it’s usually best to share your story, educate your loved ones about your condition, and allow them to volunteer to be a donor. If a friend or family member volunteers to be a donor, you’ll both need to be evaluated for compatibility.
Every center has its own procedure, so review the steps you’d need to take with them. Make sure you know which hospital will perform the procedure, how quickly you’ll need to arrive, and what you’ll need to bring.
Doctors will monitor you to make sure your body doesn’t reject the new kidney.
Since your immune system will be suppressed, you’ll be at a higher risk of getting sick. Handwashing and good hygiene are essential, and you should try to stay away from sick people.
Instead of butter or animal fats, use olive, peanut, and vegetable oils. Use dried or fresh herbs and lemon juice instead of salt when you cook. Don’t add extra salt to your meals, and avoid processed foods like deli meat, bacon, and canned vegetables. Avoid pickled foods, and limit your consumption of ketchup, barbecue sauce, and other salty condiments. [22] X Research source
