Dialysis is a medical treatment that filters waste products and excess fluids from the blood when a person’s kidneys can no longer perform these tasks adequately, a condition known as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). For individuals with ESKD, ongoing dialysis serves as a life-sustaining therapy, allowing them to manage their condition and extend their lives when a kidney transplant is not immediately possible or feasible.
General Survival Expectations
The length of time a person can live on dialysis varies considerably among individuals. While the average life expectancy for those on dialysis is generally reported to be between 5 to 10 years, some individuals have lived for 20 to 30 years or even longer. These figures represent broad averages, and an individual’s outlook is shaped by many different circumstances.
Key Factors Affecting Longevity
Several interconnected factors significantly influence longevity on dialysis. The patient’s health status at the initiation of dialysis plays a substantial role. Younger patients tend to have better outcomes, often because they have fewer co-existing medical conditions compared to older individuals. The presence of other health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease, can affect survival rates.
The specific type of kidney disease that led to kidney failure also impacts longevity. Different underlying causes of kidney damage can have varying effects on a patient’s overall health and response to dialysis treatment.
The choice of dialysis modality, whether hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, can also influence outcomes. Some research suggests that peritoneal dialysis might offer a survival advantage in the initial 1-2 years, particularly for younger, non-diabetic patients. However, in the long term, mortality rates often become similar for both modalities. Home hemodialysis has also been suggested to be more effective for longevity compared to in-center hemodialysis.
Adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen is another important determinant of longevity. This includes consistently following the dialysis schedule, taking medications as directed, and adhering to dietary and fluid restrictions. Care for the dialysis access site, whether it’s a fistula, graft, or catheter, is also important to prevent infections, which can be a serious complication for dialysis patients.
Maximizing Longevity and Well-being
To extend longevity and enhance well-being on dialysis, strict adherence to the prescribed medical plan is important. This includes consistently attending all dialysis sessions as scheduled, whether at a center or at home, and diligently taking all prescribed medications. Following specific dietary guidelines, which often involve limiting fluid, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus intake, is also important for managing waste products and fluid balance.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle supports longevity. This involves maintaining a balanced diet tailored to dialysis needs, engaging in regular physical activity as tolerated, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Proactive management of co-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, through medication and lifestyle adjustments, helps prevent complications that could impact survival.
Addressing the psychological impact of dialysis is also important for well-being. Seeking support from mental health professionals, joining support groups, or connecting with peers can help manage emotional stress and improve quality of life. Regular medical follow-ups with the healthcare team are also necessary to monitor health, adjust treatments, and promptly address any emerging complications or concerns.