August 31, 2021

Mesogeios: Quality of life… Living well with kidney failure

But what does it practically mean to live well with kidney failure? The answer is to manage the symptoms and gain quality of life.

The truth is that numbers speak for themselves …

• Over 10% of the world’s population suffer from chronic kidney failure

• Over 2 million people worldwide are on dialysis treatment or have had a kidney transplant

• Many people cannot be treated due to the distance, the country of residence, the structure, and financial reasons.

But what does it practically mean to live well with kidney failure? The answer is to manage the symptoms and gain quality of life.

Kidney failure and dialysis must not be an obstacle in human’s life. In fact, the person has the right to enjoy the moments in life even when they suffer from kidney failure or undergo dialysis.

In practical terms, the person can contribute to the quality of life by taking care of themselves and supporting their decisions.

In which way?

• Regular visits and clinical monitoring

• Following medical instructions and following a routine and stable life plan

• Systematic management of clinical problems and symptoms

• Psychological support

• Nutritional care

• Creating allies and a social environment which can support the patient.

• Physical relaxation

• Holidays

• Activities that act as anxiolytics

The biggest bet for people with chronic illnesses is to feel functional and control their thoughts and fears about the future.

So, living a good life with kidney failure means giving themselves priority, developing methods and ways to feel pleased, and keeping their role in family and personal relationships.

Eleni Soltaridou Psychologist – Mesogeios Dialysis Centers Partner