What do new kidney patients need to know?

[spacezombie]

I've known that my kidneys would fail someday for as long as I remember. But what would you tell someone that has just learned their kidneys are failing? What suggestions do you have? Does anyone have any good links with information on a good diet to help keep the kidneys working as long as possible?

My younger brother (he is 25) was just diagnosed with Alport Syndrome (his creatinine is 1.4) and I want to help make this a little less scary for him. I've talked to him and given him some basics, but I want some expert input from you guys. Thank you! 

[Rerun]

Gosh, there is so much information already on here about pre dialysis diet and just what you need to know. 

I suggest you just take some time to read some already written threads. 

That is my advice.  Read and learn all you can.

                                                   

[Romona]

Hi Spacezombie! How is your transplant?
When someone asks me, I tell them stay away from Ibuphrophen. I also tell them about IHD. Of course there is the usual watch your blood pressure ect.
National Kidney Foundation website has some nice articles.

[spacezombie]

Hi Romona!

My transplant is doing well. It is always a battle keeping everything functioning as it should, but overall I'm doing well. I had the BK virus, one thing I was always scared of, but it ended up not being that bad and went away fairly quickly. How have you been? 

[Romona]

I'm doing well. Just dealing with parathyroid issues. I did read your update. I'm glad you made through the BK thing. 

[Inara]

Tell him to try not to feel overwhelmed....he can't learn everything at once.

Also tell him to ask questions, questions, and more questions.  Always take a list of questions whenever he's going to see the doc!  We tend to forget things after we're out the door!