Managing fluids and diet as a patient on peritoneal dialysis (PD)
Fluid
One of the kidneys’ major functions is to maintain the fluid balance in your body. When your kidneys are not working well, they are not able to remove water as effectively.
Protein
Protein is a macronutrient important for your everyday health. It is composed of building blocks called amino acids and can be found in every cell of our bodies.
Potassium
Potassium is one of the main minerals found in your blood. It is also an electrolyte, which means it carries an electrical charge.
Your total weight = body weight + fluid weight
What should you do each day to balance your fluids?
- Weigh yourself
- Check and record your blood pressure
- Use the correct strength of dialysis solutions
- Look for signs of swelling and puffiness in your body
- Notice how you feel (e.g., shortness of breath)
- Pay attention to the types of food you eat and the amount you drink
- Restrict your fluids if needed, as advised by your healthcare provider
How do you know if you have too much fluid?
Too much fluid means “fluid overload,” which can strain your heart.
Symptoms of fluid overload:
- Shortness of breath
- Increase in weight
- Increase in blood pressure
- Swelling
What can you do if you have too much fluid?
- Follow the advice of your healthcare team
- Pay attention to your weight, breathing, blood pressure, and swelling
- Reduce your fluid intake
- Reduce your salt intake
- Your healthcare team may also use a stronger PD solution
- Call your healthcare provider if you are unsure
How do you know if you have too little fluid?
When you have too little fluid it is called “dehydration.”
Symptoms of dehydration:
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Lower blood pressure
What can you do if you have too little fluid?
Follow the advice of your healthcare team.
Some options may be to:
- Drink some liquids
- Use a lower-strength solution
- Not skip any exchanges
Living well on PD
Gain more control over your life with information on managing PD, including details on fluid management, exit-site care, and home delivery services.
Exit-site care
Find out how to take good care of your PD catheter and the exit site as it is the best way to lower the chance of skin infection or peritonitis.