What is automated peritoneal dialysis?
Automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) is a type of dialysis which uses a machine called a cycler. It helps put the dialysate in your abdomen, and helps drain it out after. With APD, you may do one exchange where you let the dialysate dwell in your abdomen during the day. At night, you can connect your catheter to the cycler. Peritoneal dialysis exchanges will be done while you are asleep. If you sleep for 8 to 9 hours, the machine may do 3 to 5 exchanges during that time. With APD, you do not need to stop what you are doing during the day to do an exchange. Ask your caregiver for more information about APD. Should I change my diet when I need to have CAPD exchanges? • You may lose weight and become weak when you have CAPD exchanges. You may not feel like eating. Your body may lose protein and other nutrients that you need to be healthy. You may need to increase the fiber in your diet by eating more vegetables and fruits. Fiber helps you have regular soft bowel movements (stools) and help
