When your kidneys fail, dialysis, a life-sustaining treatment that filters waste and excess fluid from the blood when kidneys can no longer do it. Also known as renal replacement therapy, it doesn’t cure kidney disease—but it can keep you alive for years, even decades. But not everyone on dialysis has the same results. Some people stay active, work, travel, and live well for over 20 years. Others face frequent hospital visits, infections, or early decline. Why? It’s not just about the machine or the clinic. Dialysis outcomes depend on what you do every day, how well your care team coordinates, and the type of dialysis you get.
There are two main types: hemodialysis, a process where blood is filtered outside the body using a machine, typically three times a week at a clinic, and peritoneal dialysis, a method that uses the lining of your abdomen as a natural filter, often done at home daily. Studies show that people on home-based peritoneal dialysis often have better long-term survival if they’re young, active, and motivated. But hemodialysis works better for those with heart problems or who need more structured care. Neither is "better"—it’s about matching the treatment to your body, lifestyle, and goals.
What really moves the needle on outcomes? It’s not just the dialysis itself. It’s your diet—too much salt and potassium can wreck your heart. It’s your meds—missing doses of phosphate binders or blood pressure pills increases hospital risk. It’s your access site—a poorly maintained fistula or catheter leads to deadly infections. And it’s your mental health—depression and isolation are common and directly linked to shorter survival. People who eat right, take meds on time, attend all sessions, and stay socially connected live longer and feel better. Simple things: walking daily, weighing yourself every morning, calling your nurse when you feel off—these aren’t chores. They’re survival tools.
You’re not alone in this. Thousands of people on dialysis manage to work, raise families, and even compete in sports. The difference? They treat their treatment like part of their routine—not something that controls them. The posts below cover real stories and science-backed tips: how to avoid infections, what foods to eat or avoid, how to spot early signs of trouble, and how to talk to your doctor about switching dialysis types. You’ll find advice on managing fluid overload, dealing with fatigue, and protecting your heart. This isn’t theory. It’s what works for people who’ve been there.
