Sea and swimming are a primary alternative and enjoyment, especially during the hot summer months. For someone on a regular dialysis program, it may seem prohibitive; but this is not always the case.
Contact your doctor and find out about swimming, how you can protect your fistula and what is important for you, as an individual to take care of.
Here are some general tips for a safe sea enjoyment:
- Wait at least 6 hours after your session before swimming.
- Always make sure your fistula or catheter is covered with a special patch.
- Change the special pad/patch when you come out of the sea. Clean the area to prevent contamination before applying the new patch.
- Carefully choose the beach you wish to swim at. With a quick internet search, you can see if the beach you intend to visit is clean or has some levels of pollution. In this case it is not recommended as an option.
- You can swim in chlorinated pool water. Avoid swimming in a stagnant lake or river water.
- Swim in the morning or afternoon. As UV rays are more dangerous during the noon hours, avoid sun exposure from 12 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Choose a shady place during your stay at the beach.
- Wear big hats, wide and comfortable linen or cotton clothes with long sleeves, to be covered from the sun.
- Apply the appropriate sun cream for your skin and do not forget to renew it during your stay at the beach.
- Do not forget your sunglasses, they are the main protection of the eyes from the sun.
Greece is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the world. At the Mesogeios Dialysis Centers Group, we believe that all people have the right and now the opportunity to admire and experience it up close.
Consult your doctor and enjoy summer with safety!
By the Scientific Director of mesogeios dialysis center Crete Aristides Paraskevopoulos