Dialysis is a life-sustaining therapy and without it I would be dead within a
week. Dialysis replaces my kidneys (I have none). It removes all the poisons or
waste products that build up in my body (potassium, sodium, phosphorus, etc) as
well as excess fluid. However, it also causes some side effects and fatigue is
one of them. Well then why dialysis patients usually feel fatigue? Follow us to
find the answer.
There are several factors can cause fatigue after dialysis
Too much fluid intake
Patients on dialysis should limit the intake of fluid strictly between
dialysis sessions. Drinking too much fluid can cause weight gain. The body just
cannot take having all that fluid removed in such as short period of time.
Therefore, it is very important for people on dialysis to limit fluids intake
and foods high in water.
Low dry weight
Low dry weight is an important value in measuring the quality of dialysis. If
proper dry weight is maintained after dialysis, a patient has no extra fluid in
his body and still feels well. However, if the weight falls below dry weight
after dialysis, the patient may experience fatigue and other discomforts.
Anemia
Anemia can cause fatigue in people with kidney failure. This condition may
become apparent during dialysis treatment.
Low blood pressure
Low blood pressure is a common cause of fatigue after dialysis. Dialysis is
usually performed 3 to 4 times in a week. Between sessions of dialysis, high
level of fluid will build up in body. During the dialysis treatment, fluid is
removed in such a short time. This is not normal for the body. The more fluid
that has to be removed, the greater the chance of a person feeling tired and
sick after dialysis.
The above are common factors of fatigue after dialysis. If you have any
question, just feel free to tell me.