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For the most part, dialysis patients lead comfortable and happy lives. Most people live their lives, go to work, see friends and family, and much more all without worrying too much about their dialysis needs.
However, problems can arise if you plan to go on a vacation. Naturally, your dialysis treatments don’t ever take a vacation! Where can you go? Can you go anywhere at all? What should you consider before booking a vacation as a dialysis patient?
Let’s find out.
Yes, it absolutely is possible for dialysis patients to take vacations! However, you’ll need to consider what kind of dialysis you’re having, as well as where you want to go.
Of course, taking a vacation while on dialysis will take more planning and preparation than other vacations. You’ll need to continue your treatments while you’re on holiday, and that will require research and preparation.
Your options will depend on what kind of dialysis you’re having – in-center hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Here’s what you’ll need to consider for each type of dialysis.
Traditional hemodialysis is done several times a week in a dialysis center. If this is your method of dialysis, you’ll need to do research in advance to find dialysis clinics near your vacation site. Talk to your doctor and dialysis clinic social worker to get help to find an appropriate location.
Remember, if you’re traveling abroad, finding a suitable dialysis clinic may be more difficult.
Peritoneal dialysis is done by filtering the blood through the abdominal membrane. Dialysis fluid is held in the abdominal cavity, and this fluid is changed regularly, sometimes several times a day.
If you have peritoneal dialysis, traveling should be much easier. This form of dialysis doesn’t require clinic visits, and it’s often done in the comfort of your own home. So, you’ll already have the expertise and equipment to do your own fluid changes on vacation.
No matter what type of dialysis you use, be sure to allow plenty of time to plan before your vacation. You may need to be flexible regarding the location and date, especially if you’re choosing a popular location. Your vacation clinic of choice may get booked up very quickly!
Dialysis cruises are also very popular. These are cruise vacations designed especially to accommodate dialysis patients. These cruises have the benefit of equipment and medical personnel on board and cater directly to dialysis patients and their families.
Wherever you choose to go on vacation, it’s essential to be prepared. Don’t push yourself too hard, especially if this is your first vacation since starting dialysis. Make sure you have all of your medical equipment and medications – and don’t forget to stick to your dialysis diet!
With a little planning and common sense, you can hopefully have a fantastic vacation – dialysis or not!
