How to Care for Someone with Chronic Kidney Disease

When someone you love has chronic kidney disease (CKD), it’s challenging to know how best to help them. You want to provide a lot of support but don’t always know what they need. This article will cover some of the essential tips for caretakers of those who are suffering from chronic kidney failure.

But before we dive into things, it is always important to note that if symptoms ever get severe, we always recommend visiting the doctor, and preferably someone within nephrology.

What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease is an age-related and lifestyle disease that affects over 37 million people in the United States alone. The kidneys are organs found near your lower back, on either side of your spine. 

The two separate nephrons remove waste from the blood to put it into the urine and reabsorb water and minerals like sodium and potassium. When these nephrons stop functioning properly because of chronic kidney disease or other causes, toxins can build up, which will lead to a host of symptoms, including pain.

Emotional Support

One of the most important things you can do as a caregiver is to provide emotional support. Their condition mustn’t seem like a burden on your life. Suppose you show signs that you are upset while trying to care for someone with CKD. 

In that case, it can add unwanted and unneeded emotional stress on that individual that already has enough challenges in their lives. Instead, stay positive, supportive, and talk about things that do not always center around kidneys and health. 

Dietary Support

Someone with chronic kidney disease has to be on a specific diet because the kidneys are no longer working to filter out toxins in a diet like healthy kidneys can consume. Low sodium and potassium diets are optimal for chronic kidney disease patients because both of these minerals help regulate blood pressure, heart rate, and fluid balance. 

One way a caregiver can help ensure that dietary needs are met, is by simply paying closer attention; if you’re out at a restaurant, ask the server about the ingredients of specific dishes or meals. You can also read the labels closely before preparing meals.

Regulating Exercise

CKD often leads to a decrease in energy levels, and when energy levels are low, it can be tough to find the drive to exercise appropriately. As a caregiver, you can support your loved one in their efforts to exercise by planning walks and outings together that will be low-impact on the body but still provide good physical activity, or to try and find activities that they may enjoy doing that are still active and healthy.

Managing Medication

As a caregiver, it is your responsibility to help manage the medication amounts, and to monitor consistency. Medication is vital in managing CKD, and symptoms such as fatigue and brain “fogginess” can sometimes cause your loved one to forget their daily medications! 

Scheduling a set time every day is a great way to ensure you are managing your medications properly. You can always assist them in the process, so it becomes part of your daily routine!

Conclusion

Having CKD is a complex disease to manage, so having an incredible caregiver can make a world of difference! When you are in the role of a primary caregiver, assist them physically, mentally, emotionally, and with anything else you can that might help make life easier for them. 

If you are looking for more ways to support someone with chronic kidney disease, consider seeking professional advice. Find experts in nephrology in Dallas, Texas to consult with to ensure you’re providing the best care that you possibly can.