Is dialysis uncomfortable or painful?
There may be pain when the needles are inserted (similar to having an IV started). Dialysis itself is painless. However some patients may experience a fall in blood pressure during dialysis. This may cause you to experience nausea, vomiting, headache, or muscle cramps. 7. What questions should I ask of my Nephrologist (kidney specialist physician) in making decisions regarding dialysis? • What is/are the appropriate method(s) of dialysis? • Will any surgery be needed to prepare for dialysis? • What are the potential side effects of dialysis? • What will be the recommended schedule of dialysis? • What quality of life can I expect with and without dialysis? • What is my prognosis (expected course and survival) with and without dialysis? 8. What assistance is available from Kaiser Permanente to assist me in making a decision regarding dialysis? Your physician may refer you to Palliative Care for assistance in decision-making if you experience difficulty and/or conflict in deciding to begi
