Essential Care Tips for Dialysis Patients During Winter

With the decreasing temperature bar, the season of winter is on its way in India. Along with this season comes the most common illness like cold, cough, viral fever, breathing problems, pneumonia, and the increased risk for dialysis patients. If you are a dialysis patient, you need to start paying immediate attention to your health because there is a high probability of you getting caught with several infections, respiratory issues, viral diseases, and even influenza.

If you are on dialysis, follow these tips during the winter season.

1. Get your essential vaccinations: Dialysis patients are usually considered to have a weaker immune system and are recommended on a high note to get their respective vaccinations on time to prevent seasonal infectious diseases and illnesses. This will provide you protection against influenza and other severe health complications. Visit your nearby dialysis center and keep a track of your essential vaccinations.
2. Take your medications on time: Dialysis patients suffering from either Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) are used to consume several medications. They must take their prescribed medications on time without skipping a dose. Before the cold breeze hits the maximum speed and the weather worsens, stock up your medications beforehand.
3. A regular check-up with the doctor: This is the time when you can surely not miss the regular check-up with your concerned doctor. If you haven’t seen your doctor in a long while, schedule an appointment with them in the first place and prepare a set of the questionnaire you are seeking answers to and get all your doubts cleared.
4. Exercise at home: Avoid stepping outside in the cold weather; rather keep your fitness routine on track by exercising at home. Although, we highly recommend you to consult your concerned doctor first regarding the set of exercises you would be performing and take their opinion for the same. It is always better to stay physically fit but not at cost of pushing yourself towards the pool of depression.
5. Give a shot to winter diet: Alongside being extra sure of your vaccination & medications, it is equally important to follow a seasonal diet that will add a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals to your body. Opt for some healthy recipes and your favourite soups that will eventually keep your body warm. Above all, consult your doctor and get a winter-based dietary plan ready for yourself.
6. Keep yourself moisturized & warm: Dialysis patient often suffer from dry & itchy skin which can get worse during the winter. Use unscented moisturizers to keep your skin well moisturized. Drink a sufficient amount of water to keep yourself hydrated but consider your fluid intake limit. While stepping out, make sure you cover up your body with warm clothes like a sweatshirt, jacket, hand gloves, socks, and cotton buds in the ears. After returning home, have a bath with warm water with a few drops of liquid disinfectants in it to wash away the unwanted germs from your body.

Conclusion: If you are still unsure about your health, you need to visit your nearest hospital specialized in nephrology i.e. a dialysis Centre, and get yourself a proper check-up done.