Duration of Survival After Ceasing Dialysis: Key Points to Understand
Dialysis is a crucial treatment for many people with kidney failure, but what happens when dialysis is no longer an option? Here's a guide to help you understand the steps and considerations when stopping dialysis.
Firstly, it's important to note that a person may not necessarily need to continue a special kidney diet after stopping dialysis, according to the National Kidney Foundation. However, maintaining a healthy diet can support kidney health. Tips include reducing sodium intake, choosing fresh fruits and vegetables, avoiding foods high in phosphorus, eating smaller portions of protein, preparing fresh meals at home, and avoiding processed foods.
When a person decides to stop dialysis, they should discuss their thoughts with a member of their treatment team. The decision to discontinue dialysis can be complex and emotional, and it's essential to have open and honest conversations with healthcare professionals.
After stopping dialysis, a person's doctor can provide information about dialysis, including likely life expectancy and quality of life, and connect them with support groups or other people experiencing a similar situation. The life expectancy of a person after stopping dialysis primarily depends on their overall health, age, the underlying cause of kidney failure, and presence of other medical conditions.
Key factors influencing life expectancy after stopping dialysis include overall health and comorbidities, age, residual kidney function, symptom burden and complications, and the reason for stopping dialysis. Older patients and those with multiple health problems or severe symptoms tend to have shorter survival times without dialysis, while those with some remaining kidney function may survive longer.
Hospice eligibility typically requires a life expectancy of six months or less after stopping dialysis, focusing on comfort care rather than life prolongation. Symptom management and supportive care are emphasized once dialysis is stopped.
Healthcare professionals will endeavour to honour a person's wishes about where they stay following dialysis treatment. Some people may choose to stay at home, while others may need to consider nursing homes or hospice care. Home healthcare aids may be available, but location and insurance coverage can make this option unavailable or unsuitable.
In summary, while stopping dialysis often leads to death within weeks to months, the exact life expectancy varies based on age, residual kidney function, overall health, and symptom status. The prognosis is generally poor without dialysis, as it substitutes for kidney function in end-stage renal disease, which is otherwise irreversible. It's essential to have open and honest conversations with healthcare professionals and to make informed decisions about treatment options.
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