Sách Kidney Failure CHOOSING A TREATMENT THAT ’ S RIGHT FOR YO U

C o n t e n t s
Introduction 1
When Your Kidneys Fail 1
Treatment Choice: Hemodialysis . 2
Treatment Choice: Peritoneal Dialysis . 9
Treatment Choice: Kidney Transplantation . 1 5
Treatment Choice: Refusing or Withdrawing
From Treatment . 2 2
Paying for Treatment . 2 4
Conclusion 2 4
Resources . 2 5
Acknowledgments . 2 9


I n t ro d u c t i o n
Your kidneys filter wastes from your blood and regulate other
functions of your body. When your kidneys fail, you need
treatment to replace the work of healthy kidneys to survive.
Developing kidney failure means that you have some decisions
to make about your treatment. If you choose to receive treat-
ment, your choices are hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and
kidney transplantation. Each of them has advantages and dis-
advantages. You may also choose to forgo treatment. By
learning about your choices, you can work with your doctor
to decide what’s best for you. No matter which treatment
you choose, you’ll need to make some changes in your life,
including how you eat and plan your activities. But with the
help of your health care team, family, and friends, you can
lead a full, active life.