Common Dialysis Treatment Questions

Muscle cramps during dialysis are usually caused by removing too much fluid too quickly. This happens when patients drink more fluid between sessions than recommended. Limiting your fluid intake, reducing sodium in your diet, and reaching your dry weight gradually can help prevent cramps. Let your nurse know immediately if you experience cramping — they can adjust your treatment.

Post-dialysis fatigue is very common. Your body goes through a lot during treatment — fluid shifts, toxin removal, and blood pressure changes can all contribute to tiredness. Most patients feel better within a few hours. Getting adequate rest, eating well, and staying lightly active on non-dialysis days can help improve your energy levels over time.

In many cases, yes. Avitus offers multiple shift times to accommodate different schedules. If your current schedule is not working for you, speak with your social worker or charge nurse about available options. Keep in mind that some time slots may have waiting lists, but we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Your care team monitors several key lab values monthly: Kt/V (dialysis adequacy — should be above 1.2), hemoglobin (red blood cells — target 10-12 g/dL), phosphorus (bone health — target 3.5-5.5 mg/dL), potassium (heart safety — target 3.5-5.0 mEq/L), and albumin (nutrition — target above 3.5 g/dL). Your doctor will review results with you and adjust treatment as needed.

Tell your nurse right away. Dizziness during dialysis is usually caused by low blood pressure as fluid is removed. The nurse can slow down the fluid removal rate, recline your chair, or give you a small amount of saline. Do not try to stand up on your own if you feel dizzy. This is common and our staff is trained to manage it quickly.

Your nephrologist will typically see you at the dialysis center once or twice a month during your regular treatment sessions. They review your lab results, assess your overall condition, and adjust your prescription as needed. You may also have scheduled clinic visits for more detailed evaluations. Never hesitate to ask to speak with your doctor if you have concerns between visits.