Starting dialysis is a major life transition, but with the right preparation and support, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana (NANI), our mission is to empower patients with kidney disease to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Whether you’re just beginning to explore dialysis options or preparing to start treatment, having a plan in place can make all the difference. This guide walks you through every step: from understanding the types of dialysis to building a lifestyle that supports your long-term well-being.
In This Blog:
- Understanding Your Dialysis Options
- Preparing Mentally and Emotionally
- Physical Preparation Before Starting Dialysis
- Building a Dialysis Schedule That Fits Your Life
- Nutrition and Lifestyle Adjustments
- Managing Finances and Insurance
- Staying Positive and Connected
Understanding Your Dialysis Options
When your kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste and excess fluid, dialysis becomes a crucial part of maintaining your health. The first step is understanding which type of dialysis best fits your lifestyle and medical needs.
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is the most common form of treatment. It uses a machine to filter your blood through a special membrane called a dialyzer. Hemodialysis can be performed in a dialysis center under professional supervision or at home with proper training and equipment. Many NANI patients appreciate the structure and support of in-center care, while others value the flexibility and independence that home hemodialysis provides.
Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) offers another effective option. It uses your body’s peritoneal membrane inside your abdomen to filter waste. PD is typically done at home, either manually during the day or automatically overnight while you sleep. This approach often appeals to patients who prefer a more private and flexible treatment schedule.
Your Berwyn nephrologist will help you compare these options, considering your medical condition, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Together, you’ll create a care plan that supports both your health and your independence.
Preparing Mentally and Emotionally
Starting dialysis can bring up a mix of emotions. You may feel relief that you’re getting treatment, but also uncertainty about how it will affect your daily life. It’s completely normal to feel this way. Taking time to prepare mentally and emotionally can help you face this transition with confidence.
At NANI, we believe emotional wellness is just as important as physical health. Our care teams encourage open conversations about your fears, expectations, and goals. You’re never alone in this process and we will do our best to connect you with support groups, mental health counselors, and peer mentors who have been through dialysis themselves.
Involving family members or close friends in your dialysis education sessions can also make a big difference. They’ll better understand what you’re going through and how to offer meaningful support. Remember, a positive mindset and a strong support system are key to thriving on dialysis.
Physical Preparation Before Starting Dialysis
Before dialysis begins, your nephrologist will guide you through several important steps to prepare your body and ensure treatment success.
One of the first steps is establishing vascular access, which is a way for your blood to enter and exit the dialysis machine. Most patients will need either an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, AV graft, or a catheter, depending on their individual situation. Planning this in advance is crucial because it gives your access site time to heal and function properly before starting treatment.
You’ll also meet with your NANI care team to complete lab work, imaging, and heart evaluations to confirm that your body is ready for dialysis. During this stage, managing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes becomes even more important, as these directly affect kidney health.
In addition, your dietitian may begin adjusting your eating plan to help balance fluid, protein, and electrolyte levels before treatment starts. Taking these proactive steps help you begin dialysis smoothly and confidently, without unnecessary delays or complications.
Building a Dialysis Schedule That Fits Your Life
Dialysis doesn’t have to take over your life and with thoughtful planning, it can fit into your daily routine. Your NANI care team will work closely with you to design a treatment schedule that aligns with your lifestyle, work, and family responsibilities.
If you choose in-center hemodialysis, you’ll typically come to the dialysis center three times a week for about four hours per session. NANI offers convenient scheduling options across Illinois, Indiana, and New Jersey, so you can find a center and time that works best for you.
For patients using home dialysis, flexibility is key. You can often perform treatments early in the morning, in the evening, or even overnight. NANI’s training programs ensure you feel confident and supported at every step, with 24/7 on-call assistance available.
Whether in a clinic or at home, consistent attendance is critical for your health and energy levels. Your care team can also help plan for travel or emergencies, ensuring you always have access to treatment wherever life takes you.
Nutrition and Lifestyle Adjustments
What you eat and drink plays a major role in how you feel during dialysis. Because your kidneys aren’t filtering efficiently, certain minerals and fluids can build up in your body. That’s where your NANI renal dietitian comes in. They’ll craft a personalized nutrition plan tailored to your lab results, treatment type, and lifestyle.
Here are a few general dietary guidelines for dialysis patients:
- Watch your sodium intake to help control blood pressure and reduce fluid retention.
- Limit potassium and phosphorus to avoid complications like muscle weakness or bone changes.
- Monitor fluid intake carefully to prevent swelling and shortness of breath.
- Choose high-quality proteins to help your body repair and maintain muscle tissue.
Beyond nutrition, regular low-impact exercise, such as walking, light stretching, or chair yoga, can improve energy, mood, and circulation. The NANI team encourages you to balance activity with rest and to listen to your body as you adjust to your new routine.
Managing Finances and Insurance
Understanding the financial side of dialysis care is an important part of long-term planning. Dialysis is typically covered by Medicare, even if you’re under age 65, as well as by most private insurance plans. However, coverage details can vary depending on your specific situation.
NANI’s financial counselors are here to help you navigate the process. They’ll review your insurance benefits, explain co-pays and deductibles, and help you apply for assistance programs that can offset costs for medications, transportation, or home dialysis supplies.
If you’re preparing for a future kidney transplant, your North Chicago nephrologist can also guide you through what to expect financially, including post-transplant medication coverage and follow-up care costs. The goal is to help you focus on your health, not your bills.
Staying Positive and Connected
Your dialysis journey is about your medical care, but also about finding balance, purpose, and connection. Many patients report that after the initial adjustment, dialysis becomes a manageable part of life, especially with the right mindset and support network.
At NANI, we encourage patients to stay socially active and engaged in hobbies that bring them joy. Our social workers can connect you with patient support groups, educational workshops, and online communities where you can share experiences and learn from others who understand exactly what you’re going through.
As you continue your dialysis care, you and your Berwyn nephrologist will also discuss long-term goals, including the possibility of kidney transplantation. Staying proactive, informed, and hopeful can help you maintain a high quality of life throughout your treatment journey.
Conclusion
Planning your journey with dialysis is about more than starting a treatment, it’s about taking control of your health and your future. By learning your options, preparing both physically and emotionally, and surrounding yourself with the right support team, you can approach dialysis with confidence and clarity. At Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana (NANI), our physicians, nurses, dietitians, and care coordinators are here to guide you through every stage of your kidney care journey. From choosing between in-center and home dialysis to developing a personalized nutrition plan and exploring transplant options, we help you make informed decisions that fit your goals and lifestyle.
If you’re preparing for dialysis or have recently been diagnosed with kidney disease, take the next step with NANI. Our experienced nephrologists provide comprehensive care across Illinois, Indiana, and New Jersey, offering convenient dialysis centers and home treatment support to meet your needs. Contact your nearest NANI location today to schedule a consultation and begin planning your dialysis journey with confidence, compassion, and the region’s leading kidney care specialists.
