HYDERABAD: Living with dialysis is considered by many as a challenging experience. Not being able to travel, work or indulge in any physical activities, is not an easy life to be in. However, the irony here is that most of these beliefs surrounding the lifestyle of those undergoing dialysis are baseless. Scientific evidences suggest having an active lifestyle is directly proportional to improved health in the dialysis community. Regular physical activity could be considered a non-pharmacological component of complex therapy. To live a productive and happier life, therefore, it is very important for persons who suffer from chronic kidney to indulge in exercises and other forms of physical activities.
Life on dialysis doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to stop working or drastically stop your daily activities. It’s the best if you can stay on the job, to ensure you stay active through the day. It is better to stay engaged to maintain the enthusiasm levels to overcome the illness and enjoy a happier life. Today dialysis delivery itself has been simplified to such an extent that one can get dialysis done, while he/she is on a holiday. With reputed chains offering protocol-based services across the country, one needn’t even think again while planning to travel.
Many who undergo dialysis fear of exhaustion and are therefore more apprehensive to indulge in any physically challenging activities. In fact, regular physical activities or exercise will help them stay healthy and relaxed. Muscle wasting is one of the most common side effects of kidney diseases. Regular physical activities can develop joint mobility, muscle strength, improved cardio respiratory fitness etc.
Overall, exercise programmes help in improving physical fitness thereby making them more self-sufficient and encouraging them to return back to their normal lives.
Studies indicate such programmes significantly enhance their emotional quotient as well by increasing their self esteem, self confidence and ability to deal with stress. The complications of the illness are consequently brought down and support the treatment process too.
Regular inactivity during the dialysis period can lead to regression of the recipient’s fitness level leading to muscular atrophy, reduced capacity of the musculoskeletal system, bone, neural and articulation diseases.
An acceptable choice of regular exercise activities will aid those undergoing dialysis achieve optimal functioning and psychological impetus to improve their health.
A combination of aerobic and resistance training would be ideal for most. However, it is best to seek the doctor’s guidance before choosing the best form of physical activity suiting one.
Dialysis does not mean the end, but it’s just the beginning of a new life- to be born again.
(Dr Sashidhar is Consultant Nephrologist at NephroPlus Dialysis Centres)