Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Dialysis
Hearing that you may need dialysis can feel overwhelming, even if you’ve been monitoring kidney issues for a while. Most patients describe this moment as a mix of fear, confusion, and urgency. That’s completely normal. The most important thing you can do now is start an open, honest conversation with your nephrologist so you understand your options and feel in control of the next step.
To help you prepare, here are the top questions to ask your doctor about dialysis—the ones that spark real clarity, build trust, and ensure your care plan fits your life, not the other way around.
What Dialysis Options Do I Have, and Which One Makes the Most Sense for Me?
Dialysis isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. Your doctor will usually recommend one of two main types:
- Hemodialysis (HD): Your blood is filtered through a machine that helps remove toxins and excess fluid. Most people receive HD at a dialysis center three times a week, although home hemodialysis is becoming more common.
- Peritoneal Dialysis (PD): This method uses the lining of your abdomen as a natural filter. It’s done daily at home, often overnight while you sleep. Your doctor’s recommendation depends on factors like your medical history, lifestyle, job flexibility, and the level of support you have at home.
Pro Tip: Ask your doctor to walk you through why they suggest one method over the other. A good explanation helps you understand your options and shows that your care plan is truly personalized.
What Access Procedure Do I Need, and When Should I Start Preparing for It?
Both HD and PD require a special access point that needs time to heal before treatment begins. Planning ahead prevents emergency dialysis starts, which are more stressful and come with higher risks.
For hemodialysis, you’ll need either an AV fistula or graft placed in your arm. For peritoneal dialysis, a surgeon places a catheter in your abdomen. These access points can take several weeks—or even a few months—to fully mature.
Pro Tip: Ask your nephrologist about the surgical process, healing timeline, and when you should schedule the procedure. Early planning keeps your transition to dialysis smoother and safer.
How Will Dialysis Affect My Daily Life, Work, and Travel?
Dialysis is a major commitment, so it’s important to understand how it fits into your everyday routines.
Most patients want to know:
- How many hours each session takes
- How often treatments occur
- Whether home dialysis offers more freedom
- How travel works when you’re on treatment
Be open with your doctor about your job, family obligations, and travel habits. People who work full-time or travel often are sometimes better candidates for home dialysis options like PD or home HD, which offer more flexibility and independence.
Pro Tip: Ask for examples of how other patients in similar situations manage their schedules. Real-world stories can help you picture what life on dialysis might look like.
What Risks or Complications Should I Be Aware Of?
Every medical treatment has risks, and understanding them helps you notice early warning signs.
Your doctor will likely discuss:
- Infection risks at your access site
- Low blood pressure during hemodialysis sessions
- Peritonitis, a specific risk for PD
- Long-term issues such as anemia, bone changes, or protein-energy needs
What matters most is knowing how problems are prevented and what to do if something feels off.
Pro Tip: Ask your care team how they monitor for complications and what their protocol is if issues arise. A transparent explanation builds trust and helps you feel protected.
Should I Start the Kidney Transplant Evaluation Process Now?
Dialysis keeps you healthy and stable, but it isn’t a cure. For many people, a kidney transplant offers the best long-term quality of life.
Even if you’re just beginning dialysis, it’s wise to ask whether you’re a good candidate for transplant evaluation. The process takes time—from initial testing to placement on the waitlist—so starting early is often beneficial.
Pro Tip: Think of dialysis as part of a long-term kidney care plan, not the final destination. Discussing transplant options now helps you plan for the future while maintaining stability today.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to start dialysis is a major life moment, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. When you ask thoughtful questions, you become an active partner in your care—not just someone receiving treatment.
Your nephrology team is there to guide you, answer your concerns, and help you build a plan that supports both your health and your lifestyle. With the right information and a supportive care team, you can step into this next chapter feeling confident and prepared. Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients don’t find dialysis painful. Hemodialysis requires needle sticks, which can cause brief discomfort, while peritoneal dialysis exchanges are usually painless. Any persistent pain should be reported to your care team.
Training typically lasts a few days, and a dialysis nurse will guide you through every step, including sterile technique and machine use. By the end, most people feel confident performing PD independently.
Ask about treatment schedules, the flexibility of home dialysis options, and how to coordinate treatments around your workday. Many patients continue working—your team can help design a plan that fits your job.
Diet, fluid intake, and medication routines may change depending on your dialysis type. Your doctor or dietitian can provide a personalized plan to help you stay healthy and feel your best.
Life expectancy varies widely based on age, overall health, and how well you stick to your treatment plan. Many patients live for years—and even decades—on dialysis, especially with consistent care and a healthy lifestyle.