Home HD

[fredinspain]

I have recently started HD after 7 years of home PD and I wonder if there is anywhere that people share the experience of home HD.

I have had my house assessed as suitable and it is possible I might get the NxtStage machine which looks the best choice and can be used over night they say.

[Nicolala]

I have been dialysing at home for several years; I currently do nocturnal dialysis overnight, 4 nights a week. Home dialysis gives you more freedom and more control over your life. Nocturnal took a while to get used to, but I feel the best I've ever felt in 25 years of dialysis. If it's possible for you, and you have the self discipline and confidence to go ahead, I'd highly recommend home HD, on any regime. Good luck.

[fredinspain in reply to Nicolala]

Hi Nicolala,

Thanks for the reply, As someone who was used to nocturnal dialysis on PD then the idea of doing it on HD is very attractive. I am almost there in my decision but as I am retired I could also do daytime dialysis 4 or 5 times a week. I am certainly feeling better now I am going to the clinic for HD 3 times a week than I did on the last 2 years of PD.

Fred

[Nicolala in reply to fredinspain]

I'm not a fan of PD. Tried it once many years ago- the tube was always infected. I only lasted 3 months! If you have done PD, you'll be fine on HD. Needling yourself will be the biggest hurdle.

[fredinspain in reply to Nicolala]

Yes needling is the hurdle but my wife is an ex care worker and loves sticking needles in me.

Do you have the NxtStage machine or another one?

[Nicolala in reply to fredinspain]

Hi Fred

Patients at my unit have either a Braun or Fresenius machine at home. I am using the Braun with good results. THE nx stage was trialled, but it was considered less efficient for nocturnal dialysis particularly, than my current machine. I know it is popular elsewhere.

[fredinspain in reply to Nicolala]

Thanks for that info about the other machines I don't know much about the machine choices.

I will investigate on the web.

[Nicolala]

Unless you are able to pay privately, I suspect your choices may be limited to the ones on your renal unit. I would highly recommend the Braun machines as they are extremely reliable and easy to use in comparison with, say Fresenius. As I do not have a carer and fully operate the machine myself, my needs are of course, slightly to that of a patient having someone else there to help. Other aspects to consider are technical support etc.

I wish you luck.

[fredinspain in reply to Nicolala]

Thank you for your info and your good wishes. The NxStage machine is recommended and installed by my renal unit but I am not sure what alternatives are.

Fred

[Nicolala in reply to fredinspain]

I think they may use one or two on the unit, and some home HD friends of mine have trialled them on the unit, but I don't think anyone has one at home yet. Because I'm already established and work during the day when the trials took place, I haven't actually tried it myself.

[Soneram]

Hi I've been on home PD for just three month nd find it great for me only a wee bit tying awaiting to move into a house more viable for me to do over night dialysis instead of four times a day only been having dialysis fifteen month now but I do feel much better on PD than on HD I no Spring chick 71 yrs so not sure as yet I'm able to go in for transplant till I see my consultant next month but even my blood count is much better and not needed my iron injection for two month so I don't think I would like to go back on HD