Hi all,
This is my first post here, so excuse me please if I don’t follow protocol.
My function is about 20% so I’m pre-dialysis, but I’ve started looking into the options and am leaning towards PD. My neph says there’s a waiting list at the University hopsital to do home hemo, and that I’d have to start out in-center first, which isn’t an option because I need to keep my job. Also that to do home hemo I’d need to have an ultra, super duper water filtration unit installed at a cost of $10,000-$20,000. So much for that! Anyway…
An old post elsewhere on this site mentioned that baths are discouraged for PD patients as a source of infection. My neph had said after I started PD I’d still be able to go kayaking (I do open water, not white water). Is he overly optimistic, or sugar coating reality, or does he not realize the risk? I’m a decent paddler but can’t rule out the possibility of getting dunked in Lake Michigan. A dry suit (not a wet suit) is a possibility, but they’re expensive and uncomfortable, particularly in the summer months. So what’s the reality here?
That got me to wondering what other restrictions there might be. I have a horse and two dogs, and animals make for a messier/dirty lifestyle. I like to bike ride and run, but I’ve read that I should exercise when the temp’s over 80. And how do you exercise and not drink more water?
With any luck I’m premature with these questions and won’t start dialysis for a while yet. Still, I like to face things head on.
Thanks in advance,
Karen