If you or someone you love is living with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), you may be carrying a lot right now: worry, hard questions, big decisions. We’re here to support you.
Your doctor will watch your numbers and symptoms and talk with you about when and whether dialysis is an option you should consider. If dialysis hasn’t come up during your healthcare visits, you can always ask your healthcare team about it.
Only your doctor can advise you on whether a kidney transplant is a treatment option you should consider. For some people, a kidney transplant can help with feeling better and continuing to reach health goals. Your doctor will be able to answer any questions you have.
Yes, you can. Many people continue to work, travel, and spend time doing the things that are important to them. And treatment options are flexible too, including dialysis that can be done at home. The goal of your treatment plan is for you to feel your best and help you reach your health goals, at every stage.
This is a scary question, and it's okay to ask it. Advanced kidney disease is serious, but for most people it is not the end of their story. When your kidneys can no longer keep up, treatments like dialysis and a kidney transplant take over much of their work, helping you feel better and live longer. Many people live for years this way and keep working, traveling, and doing the things that are important to them. A kidney transplant, when it's a treatment option for you, can offer an even longer life than dialysis.
Of course, your personal prognosis is something only your healthcare team can tell you, because it depends on so much, including your stage, your other health conditions, the treatment you choose, and how your body responds.
It's okay to ask your healthcare team directly, and it's okay to bring someone you trust to that conversation. Whatever lies ahead, you don't have to face it alone.
Learning the basics, going to healthcare visits, helping with questions and notes, and simply being there all help.
Ask which treatment options fit your needs, what each option involves day to day, and how to plan ahead. It’s okay to take your time and ask as many questions as you need to.
My Experience Managing Kidney Disease with Jacqueline discusses the gap between what guidelines recommend and what patients experience.
When kidneys can no longer filter enough on their own, there are a few common options you and your doctor will discuss. The right treatment depends on your health, your lifestyle, and what matters most to you. Here’s an overview to explore with your doctor.
Peritoneal dialysis (PD)
PD is a needle-free treatment, done at home, that uses the lining of your abdomen (or belly) to filter your blood. You’ll have a flexible schedule that can make it easier to travel, work, or study. PD is gentler on your heart and body, which can help with a transplant if it’s a treatment option for you in the future.
Home hemodialysis (HHD)
HHD works just like in-center hemodialysis (described below) by using an external filter to clean toxins from your body, but with a smaller machine. This home option can give you more flexibility and a shorter recovery time, and you’ll need fewer medications.
In-center hemodialysis
This is the “traditional” dialysis option that you’ll have done at a dialysis center about three times a week. Some people appreciate the routine, the community, and not having to store supplies at home.
In-center nocturnal dialysis
With this option, your dialysis is done overnight at a center while you sleep, about three times a week. Because it’s done at night, it won’t interfere with your daytime schedule. This type of dialysis can also help with managing your blood pressure.
A successful kidney transplant can mean you may not need dialysis for years. If you and your doctor decide this is a treatment option you should consider, you’ll start with an evaluation to determine whether you’re a good candidate.
See Questions to Ask Your Doctor Learn More About Living with CKD
Your healthcare team can take you step-by-step through your treatment options for advanced CKD. Here’s what a nephrologist (kidney doctor) wants you to know right away.
How much your treatments will cost and if they’re covered by insurance are common, valid questions and concerns. Dialysis and kidney transplants are covered by many insurance plans, and financial help may be available to you, but it depends on your situation.
Ask your healthcare team about coverage and financial assistance, and talk with your insurance provider about what your plan covers for dialysis, transplant, and medications.
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