How to Help Someone with Renal Failure

Renal failure, also called kidney failure, occurs when the kidneys stop filtering waste and excess salt from the blood. When this happens, fluids, salts, and waste can build up in the bloodstream. Without successful treatment, renal failure can be fatal. If you know someone with renal failure, there are ways you can help him to get treatment and stay healthy.

Instructions

• 1

  Research renal failure. Having extensive knowledge of the disease's causes, symptoms, and treatments may give you a better idea of how you can help the patient.

• 2

  Keep track of the patient's medical appointments. If left untreated, renal failure may progress until the kidneys do not function at all. A renal failure patient may see a doctor regularly for exams and tests.

• 3

  Encourage her to seek aggressive treatment for underlying conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, that contribute to renal failure.

• 4

  Recommend a visit with a dietitian who can help the patient learn how to eat well and manage his condition. According to MedicineNet, a renal failure patient may need to reduce consumption of foods that are high in calcium, phosphorus---a type of mineral---and salt. Depending on his doctor's orders, he may need to limit his liquid and protein consumption as well.

• 5

  Remind the renal failure patient to take her medications. Depending on her unique medical condition, she may take medications to lower the amount of phosphorus in her body (levels of this mineral often rise during kidney failure), contributing to the risk of bone disease. She may also take medications that stimulate the production of red blood cells and control underlying conditions, like high blood pressure and diabetes.

• 6

  Assist the renal failure patient with traveling to and from dialysis appointments. Dialysis is a procedure that substitutes for the kidneys by removing wastes and excess fluids from the blood. Dialysis appointments are necessary if his kidneys have failed completely.

• 7

  Help the patient to weigh the pros and cons of a kidney transplant if his doctor says it's an option. A kidney transplant replaces unhealthy kidneys with a functioning kidney from a donor. One kidney can perform the jobs normally managed by two kidneys.

• 8

  Ask other family members and friends to help. It may be easier to provide consistent support if you can take turns with others rather than having the sole responsibility rest on your shoulders.