I Hate Dialysis Message Board

Dialysis Discussion => Dialysis: General Discussion => Topic started by: Cordelia on May 14, 2012, 05:49:03 AM

Title: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 14, 2012, 05:49:03 AM
Are Manicures and Pedicures safe?

My 40th  birthday is tomorrow and my best friend wanted to take me for a pedicure, treating me to one as a birthday gift.   I've pretty much said "no" on the pedicure. I have neuropathy in my feet and can't stand someone else touching my feet as they are super sensitve with damaged nerves.  So, I've kind of opted to have a manicure  instead.

However,  my fingernails are always so brittle because of the kidney disease/dialysis.   

I said to her I'd consider a mani maybe instead, but defintely no on the pedicure.

Is it safe to have a manicure while on dialysis?  What exactly do they do to your nails when you go for a manicure?

I'm a little worried they might break a nail on me since mine are so brittle.

Should I go or not? What do you all think? I need some advice here.   I have no idea if this kind of thing is safe for people on dialysis        ???

I don't want to hurt my best friend's feelings, but  I'm concerned and don't want to risk getting infection or something happpening.   What should I do?

I haven't had a mani since my wedding day almost 17 years ago and obviously back then I was not on dialysis yet to have to worry about this kind of stuff.

My best friend is diabetic .....so I guess if she's not worried, maybe I shouldn't be either. I feel guilty maybe I'm being worried/paranoid for nothing.

I don't know what to tell her and I really don't want to hurt her feelings.  I already feel bad enough I've said no to the pedicure,but I just can't have strangers touching my feet with super sensitive feet with the neuropathy, it is so painful.         :(
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: jbeany on May 14, 2012, 07:39:43 AM
It's only after transplant that manicures become a real problem.  Too much risk of infection, especially if they attempt to cut away cuticle and don't use sterile tools.  I don't recall ever being warned against it while I was still on D. 
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Traveller1947 on May 14, 2012, 07:57:49 AM
I know so many dialysis patients who would never be willing to give up their manicures--being pampered is so good for the morale.  And yet I know one patient who lost the tips of two fingers to the infections that followed a manicure.  I myself have painful neuropathy in my fingers, so manicures are out of the question for me.  But if I were able to have one, I would bring my own tools and polish, and disinfect the tools just before they're used.  Better safe than sorry.  All the best to you, as always.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Rerun on May 14, 2012, 08:06:44 AM
I go just to get a polish change.  Usually $5.  They don't cut anything.  Only file and polish.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: jeannea on May 14, 2012, 03:49:03 PM
I wouldn't risk it. Too much risk of infection. Maybe she can treat you to a nice shoulder massage instead?
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Brightsky69 on May 14, 2012, 05:52:46 PM
I don't risk it. Plus I just had to get an ingrown toenail cut out. I had to pre med for that. Plus it seems like a waste for something I can do myself at home.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Annig83 on May 14, 2012, 06:19:06 PM
I go every 3 weeks.  I always ALWAYS make sure they have new tools, and ask them to do so, but the place I go knows me very well.  I get pedicures too, and I always ask them to clean out the tub again, even if they say they did, I explain to them why.  I've never had an infection from the place I go... and I've been going to this place for 3 months (since I just moved), but I've been going since I was 20 or so.  I agree with Rerun though, if you have any concerns just get the polish change.  Also make sure they have their certificates on the wall, making sure that they are professionals.  Again, if you are really concerned ask your friend if she would be willing to take you for dinner, or something... if she's really your friend, she'll understand. :)
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Lovebelle on May 14, 2012, 10:31:39 PM
I would definitely not get a pedicure if you have any type of neuropathy in your feet. If you do, I would refuse to allow them to cut your toenails or anything of that nature. I even follow this general rule when it comes to myself since I dont want to risk any type of infection and I have known people who have developed fungal infections.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Jean on May 15, 2012, 12:09:56 AM
Oh, the fungal infections!!! From a manicure 3 years ago, a fungus on my right hand finger which is still not cleared up and has cost me about $300.00 in OTC meds and 2 RX's. One on my right big toe, form the manicure place and one on the left foot. They are so difficult to treat and you know it is ugly and takes forever. Personally, after this, I would pass, altho I do love my pedicures. Just not any more.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: WishIKnew on May 15, 2012, 05:32:49 AM
Wow!  So glad I read this!  I always chewed my weak fingernails before my transplant.  Now they are strong and pretty and I don't chew them.  So, I thought for my birthday I'd ask for an manicure - at 48 I've never had one and it seemed such a luxury!  Plus, truth be told, I really don 't know how to shape my nails at all myself and the cuticles, well I always just chewed them, now????  So, i guess I'll just have to practice on my own!  Thanks for letting me know about the dangers, I'd have never thought of it!

 :flower; :flower; :flower;
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: rsudock on May 15, 2012, 11:42:54 AM
I really want one too....boo!   :embarassed:

xo,
R
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: mcclane on May 15, 2012, 11:56:56 AM
I'm probably going to be the only guy responding to this, but when I was on dialysis my wife and I would go get pedicures, it felt great !  Only thing I didn't like was my feet and my calf area of the legs were swollen with fluid (PD), so when they started massaging the calf area you could see the trail left behind on my legs.

I've only gotten a manicure once, I didn't care much for it, but a pedicure sure feels damn good  :bow;

Since my transplant, I've gotten a pedicure once, and I've not run into any issues.  I especially like it when they use that razor thing and scrape off the dead skin from my heels  :rofl; :rofl;
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: monrein on May 16, 2012, 04:06:50 AM
I think the main thing is that the place be extra hygienic.  Don't be afraid t ask about their sterilization procedures, OR if you're really nervous buy your own equipment...even cuticle clippers and bring them with you.  I have pedis and manis regularly but I never let them use the razor thingy...I prefer to keep that thick skin to a minimum by going regularly and using a wooden foot sander on my feet every time I shower or bathe.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 16, 2012, 10:20:05 AM
Thank you everyone for your replies, I am so appreciative of your opinions/advice/thoughts!!          :thx;       

I was leery with this idea to begin with and you guys really helped firm up my decision and that is I have decided NOT to pursue this.

I had also asked one of my nurses and she really highly advised against doing it.

My best friend who is diabetic, I'm really quite surprised actually that she goes every now and then.    I just don't want to risk infection.  If I were to go, I KNOW I'd be worrying about it and what's the point going if I'm not going to enjoy it, it's just not worth the aggravation and worry!

I know my friend means well and her gesture is so thoughtful, but I'm sure she will understand when I tell her.

Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Wildrose on May 17, 2012, 10:14:53 PM
When I started Dialysis 2 months ago my nurse told me to NOT ever get a mani or pedi. I can't remember the reasons she gave, but I'm sure it has to do with risk of infection. Pretty much what everyone else said, lol.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 19, 2012, 03:01:45 AM
I told my friend lastnight, my decision.  She was very understanding. We're going to the movies instead.        :)
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: cassandra on May 19, 2012, 01:21:42 PM
Have a great time my darling(s)

love Cas
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 19, 2012, 04:21:01 PM
Thanks, Cas!         :thumbup;

Going to a movie theater will be much better, I think!         :thumbup;
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: cattlekid on May 19, 2012, 04:47:30 PM
Hmmmm....my home hemo nurse and I compare no-chip manicures all the time.  She never said boo to me about a manicure.  But I will only go to one place that I know is reputable.  I stay away from the really cheap places.

When I started Dialysis 2 months ago my nurse told me to NOT ever get a mani or pedi. I can't remember the reasons she gave, but I'm sure it has to do with risk of infection. Pretty much what everyone else said, lol.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 20, 2012, 05:16:17 AM
I don't know anything about manicures/pedicures, I wouldn't know who is reputable around my home and who isn't.     Pre dialysis, I never had them regularily so I just wouldn't know. 
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Traveller1947 on May 20, 2012, 06:28:22 AM
Going to the movies sounds like a great plan!  What sounds good?
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 20, 2012, 08:40:59 AM
LOL I haven't been to the theater for ages. I don't even know what's playing right  now.....

Anyone got any ideas?  LOL
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: jbeany on May 20, 2012, 09:55:34 PM
Hmmm....there's a place in the mall here that does 15 minute mini-massages on your neck and shoulders.  I think I'd suggest that to your friend next time she wants to treat you!   ;D
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 21, 2012, 01:43:56 PM
Hmmm....there's a place in the mall here that does 15 minute mini-massages on your neck and shoulders.  I think I'd suggest that to your friend next time she wants to treat you!   ;D

Sounds good too!
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: mcclane on May 21, 2012, 03:00:01 PM
LOL I haven't been to the theater for ages. I don't even know what's playing right  now.....

Anyone got any ideas?  LOL

battleship  :beer1; :beer1;

we had to stop going to the movies, we used to enjoy going to the movies alot, but since everyone and their dog has a smart phone now, and people refuse to turn the f'n things off in the movie theatre (nothing like the backlight of a smartphone illuminating in a dark movie theatre  ::) ), we just stopped going.  We would rather wait for it to appear on dvd/blu ray and rent it then.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 21, 2012, 03:22:35 PM
LOL I haven't been to the theater for ages. I don't even know what's playing right  now.....

Anyone got any ideas?  LOL

battleship  :beer1; :beer1;

we had to stop going to the movies, we used to enjoy going to the movies alot, but since everyone and their dog has a smart phone now, and people refuse to turn the f'n things off in the movie theatre (nothing like the backlight of a smartphone illuminating in a dark movie theatre  ::) ), we just stopped going.  We would rather wait for it to appear on dvd/blu ray and rent it then.

Hmmmm I hear you Mcclane, there is nothing more irritating and annoying than lit up cell phones during a movie. I wear glasses to I get a nasty glare due to wearing glasses.

You reminded me of that, I had clean forgotton about the cell phones.         ::)
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: mcclane on May 22, 2012, 10:13:56 AM
LOL I haven't been to the theater for ages. I don't even know what's playing right  now.....

Anyone got any ideas?  LOL

battleship  :beer1; :beer1;

we had to stop going to the movies, we used to enjoy going to the movies alot, but since everyone and their dog has a smart phone now, and people refuse to turn the f'n things off in the movie theatre (nothing like the backlight of a smartphone illuminating in a dark movie theatre  ::) ), we just stopped going.  We would rather wait for it to appear on dvd/blu ray and rent it then.

Hmmmm I hear you Mcclane, there is nothing more irritating and annoying than lit up cell phones during a movie. I wear glasses to I get a nasty glare due to wearing glasses.

You reminded me of that, I had clean forgotton about the cell phones.         ::)

unless the person is waiting for a transplant, there is really no need to turn on a cell phone in a movie theatre - or better yet, just don't go.

If you go on a weekday matinee, it shouldn't be too bad though, the kids are still in school and most people are at work during the weekday.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 22, 2012, 05:46:38 PM
LOL I haven't been to the theater for ages. I don't even know what's playing right  now.....

Anyone got any ideas?  LOL

battleship  :beer1; :beer1;

we had to stop going to the movies, we used to enjoy going to the movies alot, but since everyone and their dog has a smart phone now, and people refuse to turn the f'n things off in the movie theatre (nothing like the backlight of a smartphone illuminating in a dark movie theatre  ::) ), we just stopped going.  We would rather wait for it to appear on dvd/blu ray and rent it then.

Hmmmm I hear you Mcclane, there is nothing more irritating and annoying than lit up cell phones during a movie. I wear glasses to I get a nasty glare due to wearing glasses.

You reminded me of that, I had clean forgotton about the cell phones.         ::)

unless the person is waiting for a transplant, there is really no need to turn on a cell phone in a movie theatre - or better yet, just don't go.

If you go on a weekday matinee, it shouldn't be too bad though, the kids are still in school and most people are at work during the weekday.

Hmmm my friend works during the day so we'll be going on a weekend likely.
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: mcclane on May 23, 2012, 10:21:38 AM
LOL I haven't been to the theater for ages. I don't even know what's playing right  now.....

Anyone got any ideas?  LOL

battleship  :beer1; :beer1;

we had to stop going to the movies, we used to enjoy going to the movies alot, but since everyone and their dog has a smart phone now, and people refuse to turn the f'n things off in the movie theatre (nothing like the backlight of a smartphone illuminating in a dark movie theatre  ::) ), we just stopped going.  We would rather wait for it to appear on dvd/blu ray and rent it then.

Hmmmm I hear you Mcclane, there is nothing more irritating and annoying than lit up cell phones during a movie. I wear glasses to I get a nasty glare due to wearing glasses.

You reminded me of that, I had clean forgotton about the cell phones.         ::)

unless the person is waiting for a transplant, there is really no need to turn on a cell phone in a movie theatre - or better yet, just don't go.

If you go on a weekday matinee, it shouldn't be too bad though, the kids are still in school and most people are at work during the weekday.

Hmmm my friend works during the day so we'll be going on a weekend likely.

I still hope you have a good time, and here's to no one  :beer1; ruining the movie for you by them not turning off their cell phone.  :2thumbsup;

oh btw, if you can wait, chernobyl diaries is coming out this friday  :bow; :bow;
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 23, 2012, 12:07:50 PM
Thanks for your recommendations on movies, Mcclane!                 :thumbup;

LOL one thing I got to remember to do too is to sit at the back of the theater. I prefer sitting in the very last row. No chance of anybody kicking the back of my chair.          ;D
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: mcclane on May 24, 2012, 10:30:25 AM
Thanks for your recommendations on movies, Mcclane!                 :thumbup;

LOL one thing I got to remember to do too is to sit at the back of the theater. I prefer sitting in the very last row. No chance of anybody kicking the back of my chair.          ;D

Heyyyyyyyy !!!  You're not the only one, my wife and I insist on the last row if it is available, besides people kicking the back of the chair, it also prevents people from using your chair as an ottoman, plus you don't get the peanut gallery or play by play discussions as the movie plays  :bow; :beer1;
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: Cordelia on May 25, 2012, 12:50:05 PM
 :rofl;         :rofl;       :rofl;    Peanut gallery!
Title: Re: Are Manicures/Pedicures Safe?
Post by: mcclane on May 26, 2012, 02:26:24 PM
:rofl;         :rofl;       :rofl;    Peanut gallery!

I can't remember which movie it was, but we sat in the 2nd last row as there were a bunch of people in the last row, and the theatre was filling up.  Throughout the whole movie all we heard was comments/critiques about the movie from the peanut gallery behind us  ::) ::)