Answers to Your Frequently Asked Dialysis & Related Care Questions
At First Class Kidney Care in Lighthouse Point, Florida, we frequently receive questions from our dialysis patients. We hope you find the answers we have provided below helpful. For other questions, or to schedule an appointment for dialysis in Lighthouse Point, please call us at (754) 307-9256.
At this time, First Class Kidney Care accepts most major insurance plans. For a list of approved insurance providers, please visit our Insurance We Accept page. If your plan requires a co-pay, you are responsible for payment at the time of your visit. If you have questions about your insurance, please call us at (754) 307-9256.
In most cases, kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), causes the need for dialysis. Dialysis supports health while you wait for a kidney transplant. In some cases, an acute kidney injury (AKI) can require dialysis. Without dialysis, patients with ESRD experience fluid and toxic waste build up in your body. This can cause extreme tiredness, difficulty breathing, and weight gain, as well as death once the kidneys have failed.
The kidneys help to control fluid levels in your body. Once the kidneys are not properly functioning and you require dialysis for ESRD, you can help control fluids by limiting the amount of fluids you intake. Limiting sodium intake also helps to keep fluid levels under control. Our dietitian can customize a diet plan for you and review with you methods to help you manage your thirst while you are in dialysis.
It is important to control your fluids, so that it is easier to remove excess during dialysis treatment. It also helps to reduce edema (swelling), heart issues such as high blood pressure, shortness of breath, and general discomfort.
You should eat about two hours before your scheduled dialysis treatment. Choose foods that are low in fat and fiber, as they are easier to digest. A high-protein meal with quality protein sources, such as poultry and fish, produces less waste that needs to be filtered out. Limit fluid intake, and consume low-potassium vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber, and cabbage. After dialysis treatment, you should follow similar eating habits for optimal health.
While awaiting your kidney transplant, avoid foods that are high in sodium, such as processed meats and canned foods including vegetables and beans, pickles, and olives. Also, avoid foods high in potassium and phosphorus. Brown rice and whole wheat bread, as well as dairy and certain fruits including bananas and apricots may need to be avoided as well. Our knowledgeable renal dietitian helps customize a kidney-friendly diet for you while you undergo dialysis here at First Class Kidney Care.