Publisher's Synopsis
The discovery that you have kidney failure is traumatic and can deeply affect your life and the lives of those close to you. The treatment is lifelong and often intrusive, frequently including a bewildering array of options, treatments and drugs. Getting the right information at the right time is vital, and this book aims to provide just that.
This indispensable reference manual gives you, your family and friends the information you really need to know about managing your renal condition. Written by two experienced medical authors, this practical handbook covers every aspect of living with kidney disease - from diagnosis, drugs and treatment, to diet, relationships and sex.
- Contains up-to-date, medically accurate information from experts
- Discussion on different types of dialysis, so you can make an informed decision
- Information about transplants: how the waiting list works and what to do if you are offered a kidney from a friend or relative
- Tackles questions you may feel uneasy asking your doctor
Summary of contents:
What is kidney failure?
Toxin 'clearance'
Fluid balance
Blood pressure
Anaemia and Erythropoietin
Renal Bone Disease
Blood tests and other tests
Dialysis- the basics
Peritoneal dialysis
Haemodialysis
Transplantation
Living donor transplantation
The transplant operation and after
Eating well
Living with kidney failure
Sexual problems and pregnancy
End of life care
Statistics and outcomes
New developments and choice