Does anyone know of a good article which explains preventive steps to delay the start of dialysis? Also, when one is in the waiting stage, how often is it necessary to see the nephrologist and what tests/labs are taken, as well as how often, to monitor ones impending dialysis?
Hi Jane,
Try this article, which we wrote for our Life Options site, and is one of the most popular downloads. http://www.lifeoptions.org/kidneyinfo/. Generally, having chronic kidney disease is sort of like being pregnant, as far as how often you see the doctor. Early on, in stage 3 or 4, you might only go in once a year. As you near stage 5 and need an access and electrolytes start to go out of balance, and other symptoms begin to occur, more frequent visits are needed.