Where I spend my time....

[Sickl]

On hemodialysis 3x a week for 3 hours. I will go for a transplant when I get tired of this, but so far it isn’t bad. The techs ad nurses are wonderful, caring and friendly. It’s almost a social thing to me. Traveling is also much easier not having to transport a machine.

[Zazzel]

Hi Sickl, So glad it is working out for you. I am not on dialysis, but trying to learn what might lie ahead for me. I was under the impression that one had to go 5 times a week or so for 4 or more hours at a time. Do different patients vary the amount that is needed and if so do you know why? Thanks!

[Sickl in reply to Zazzel]

Hi, thanks for writing. As far as I know, everyone starts with 4 hours every other day during the week. The doctors take 15 minutes off at a time if your numbers are good. I’m down to 3 hours 3x a week.

[Zazzel in reply to Sickl]

Thanks! Although I'm sure it's inconvenient, 3 days a week at 3 hours seems way more tolerable than 5days a week. I'm less stressed about my future now

[Sickl in reply to Zazzel]

Bring a laptop or tablet to pass the time. Everyone has their own tv so the time passes quickly. You could also take a nap. What state do you live in?

[Zazzel in reply to Sickl]

I'm in Arizona. I'm actually still far off from dialysis, but the more info I know, the more I can keep my anxiety down. Thanks for the info.

[Sickl in reply to Zazzel]

Sorry i just saw this. Everyone starts with 4 hours and if your numbers are good your doctor takes off 15 min. incraments here and there. I’m up to 3hrs 15 min.

[Zazzel in reply to Sickl]

Thanks Sickl! I'm glad you have come down on the time required. Hope you are doing well!

[cs65 NKF Ambassador]

Hi Sickl,

I also go to dialysis for 3 hours 3 days a week. I've never had to have 4 hours except when I had it in hospitals. I like my nurses and techs too! They can make my day a lot easier.

[Sickl in reply to cs65]

See, it’s not so bad. You make friends there, too. I’m tying to make the best out of it.Good luck!

[cs65 NKF Ambassador]

I have made friends amongst the patients and staff. That makes it so much more pleasant to go to dialysis I agree! Hope you had a Happy Easter or Passover!

[Cyzashla]

Yessss dialysis had become a part of my life and the clinic staff makes its bearable. I spend 3 hours on machine 3 days a week . I read and watch comedies and game shows sometimes I even get a nap!

[Sickl]

Great! I’m trying to help people make the best of it. Being positive is better for you.

[Virgo03v]

How do you find a doctor willing to customize dialysis for you?

[Sickl in reply to Virgo03v]

You have to find a nephrologist in your area.

[Sickl]

Your PC should recommend a Nephrologist for you. Someone who is affiliated with your hospital. He will show up at your dialysis center frequently to check on you and read your numbers off of the machine.