Peritoneal Dialysis

Peritoneal Dialysis Information

Peritoneal dialysis uses the thin lining of the belly (peritoneum) and a fluid called dialysate to remove wastes, salt, and extra water from the blood. This is done in sessions, which are called exchanges.

Dialysis is a procedure that does some of the work healthy kidneys do.

There are two kinds of peritoneal dialysis:

  • Continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis (CCPD). In this type, a machine (cycler) fills and drains your belly while you sleep.
  • Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). This type is done up to 5 times a day. Each exchange takes about 30–40 minutes. You may do your normal activities between exchanges.

In some cases, you may have a combination of CCPD and CAPD.

Follow these instructions at home:

Eating and drinking

  • Follow instructions from your doctor about eating and drinking. You should follow a diet plan that includes:
    • Vitamins.
    • High-quality proteins. This includes meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. You may need to eat a high-protein diet.
    • Counseling with a dietitian.

General instructions

  • Take steps to prevent problems when pooping (constipation):
    • Eat foods that are high in fiber. This includes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
    • Limit foods that are high in fat and processed sugars. This includes fried and sweet foods.
    • Be active.
    • Go to the bathroom when you need to. Do not hold it in.
    • Take medicines such as laxatives only if your doctor tells you to.
  • Keep a strict schedule. Dialysis must be done every day. Do not skip a day or an exchange. Make time for each exchange.
  • Keep supplies in a cool, clean, and dry place.
  • Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
  • Weigh yourself every day. Sudden weight gain may be a sign of a problem.
  • Keep all follow-up visits as told by your doctor. This is important.

Contact a doctor if:

  • You have a fever or chills.
  • You feel sick to your stomach (nauseous).
  • You throw up (vomit).
  • You have watery poop (diarrhea).
  • You have problems with an exchange.
  • Your blood pressure goes up.
  • You suddenly gain weight.
  • You suddenly feel short of breath.
  • The tube in your belly seems loose or feels like it is coming out.
  • The fluid from your belly is pinkish or reddish. Women having their period do not need to get help if the fluid is only a little pink or red.
  • There are white strands in the dialysate that are large enough to get stuck in your tubing.

Get help right away if:

  • The area around the tube in your belly swells or gets red, tender, or painful.
  • There is pus coming from the area around the tube in your belly.
  • The fluid from your belly is cloudy.
  • You have more belly pain or discomfort.

Summary

  • Peritoneal dialysis does some of the work healthy kidneys do. It is done in sessions, which are called exchanges.
  • CAPD and CCPD are the two kinds. Your doctor will help you decide which kind is best for you.
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