Not so old buzzard...

[Buzzard97]

Greetings and salutations,
Not really that old of a buzzard, but I’m getting there. I am currently not on dialysis, but just recently had my AV fistula surgery, so it’s only a matter of time. I’ve known that kidney failure was eminent for well over a decade. I checked my kidney not too long after my mother started dialysis. Her kidney failure was due to Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), which happens to be the culprit of my own kidney failure. Hereditty can be a double-edged sword.

My kidney GFR is currently at 22, and had been decreasing almost 3 points every month after a debilitating infection. My most recent blood work showed a bit more stabilized GFR. Instead of a few months, maybe Ive got another year before I need dialysis...

In either case, I look forward to reading up and finding out more information about the undesirable future that awaits me once I do start dialysis.

[Vt Big Rig]

Welcome to the site. You will find reams of information and experience here. The search function is your friend.

[Paul]

 
Hello Buzzard97, welcome to the site. My kidneys were also killed by genetic crap from my Mother's side of the family. In my case ridiculously high blood pressure was the main cause, but diabetes helped.

[cassandra]

Welcome to the site Buzzard97


   


Take care, Cas

[Simon Dog]

In either case, I look forward to reading up and finding out more information about the undesirable future that awaits me once I do start dialysis.

I have been on D for close to 6 years, and still consider my future quite desirable.   If it was not, I could do something about that rather easily  .

I've found home D (I use NxStage) makes dealing with D much more bearable.  The important thing is to evaluate all options carefully, and not just "go with flow" when they tell you to start treatment in center.

[MooseMom]

Uuuuggggggghhhhhhh.  Oh, that time we spend just waiting for our kidneys to fail to the point of needing dialysis is just so soul destroying and psychologically painful.  That day I finally had to get my fistula created was truly one of the worst of my entire life.  I do feel for you and wish I knew which words would help you.  I'll be honest; I don't think anything really helped me, but I did get a lot of support from IHD, so I'm glad you've joined us.  IHD probably saved my mind from melting.

[Charlie B53]

Welcome to IHD!

It was smart to get your fistula created ahead of time rather than waiting.

I started dialysis very early while still at 20% function.  My legs had been swelling so badly they leaked terribly daily, soaking my socks and shoes.  Often I would get infections requiring a week or more in the hospital.  Starting dialysis removed all that water and my legs have never swollen up like that again.

I can't say dialysis was such an undesirable future.  I've been fortunate being very strict with my diet and fluids that I haven't had problems other than some slight personal depression that I am wishing I could eat or drink more like I used to.  But really, my body doesn't NEED all that!

So I shouldn't complain all that much.

Dialysis will be whatever you make of it.  If you start with the attitude that it isn't going to work well then most likely the 'Self-Fulfilling Prophesy" will become true as your behavior, eating and drinking, will not be compatible and you will have problems.

Adapt, overcome, and conquer.

Life is what you make of it.

Take Care,

Charlie B53