On Dialysis

• Understanding Your Lab Work
  GFR. Kt/V. BUN. CCr. Understanding what these tests measure and what the results mean can help you manage dialysis treatments.
• Five Myths about Dialysis
  You may have heard some myths surrounding dialysis. Now get the truths behind them.
• Your Dialysis Access
  Find what dialysis access options are available and how to care for them.
• Switching Dialysis Treatments
  For many patients, switching from one kind of dialysis to another is a lifestyle choice. Some patients prefer to treat themselves at home while others would prefer to be treated at a center.

What to Consider When Choosing a Dialysis Provider

From location to support services, here are several things to consider when deciding which dialysis provider fits your needs.

• Missed Treatments
  Every minute of every dialysis treatment is important. Learn how missing a treatment could affect your kidney health.
• Carolyne’s “Making Treatments” Story
  Missing even one dialysis treatment may raise your chances of being hospitalized. Watch this video to hear why Carolyne chose to make dialysis treatments a top priority in her life.
• Fluid Management
  For people on dialysis, too much fluid can be harmful. Watch this video to learn more about fluid control and kidney health.
• Ellen’s Fluid Story
  Learn about Ellen and how she manages her daily fluid intake.
• Access Infection Avoidance
  What do you need to know about infection risk and avoidance while on dialysis? Watch this video to learn more.
• Quick Access Check
  Look. Listen. Feel. Watch this video to learn how to do a quick access check, every day.
• More On Dialysis
  Additional articles and resources for those on dialysis

• Social Workers: Helping Dialysis Patients
  Get help from your renal social worker, from emotional support and help coping with lifestyle changes to resources for finding financial help.
• Medication Adherence
  Managing your medication is an important part of your treatment plan when you’re on dialysis.
• Exercise for Dialysis Patients
  Stay physically and emotionally sound by exercising when you’re on dialysis.
• Support For People on Dialysis and Their Loved Ones
  Access ways for you and your loved ones to find support.
• Fluid Control on Dialysis
  Learn about how what you drink affects your health and your dialysis treatments, plus get a few tips on how to control thirst.

Travel on Dialysis: 6 Steps to Plan Your Trip

Thinking of planning a getaway? No matter where you want to travel, don’t let kidney disease stop you. Check out these travel planning tips and start packing.

• Dialysis Diet Differences
  Not all dialysis diets are the same. Discover how hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis diets can differ while also sharing some of the same concepts.
• Cook Up Kidney-Friendly Recipes
  Get a wealth of ideas for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert.
• Read Kidney Diet Tips Blog
  Get the latest nutrition tips and suggestions provided by DaVita dietitians.
• Get Kidney-Friendly Cookbooks
  Access free kidney-friendly cookbooks from DaVita dietitians.

This vs. That: Low-Sodium Foods

Which foods contain less sodium? Learn more when you watch this video so you can make better choices.

• Take the Treatment Quiz
  How do you know which dialysis treatments might work well with your lifestyle? Use the Treatment Evaluator to help you find out.
• Know Your Dialysis Choices
  When you need dialysis, know that there are several types of dialysis available to fit your health and lifestyle needs.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: A Home Dialysis Option
  Learn more about the potential benefits of this needle-free home treatment.
• Learn About Kidney Transplants
  Understand this alternative treatment to dialysis and its benefits.
• 5 Reasons to Choose a Kidney Transplant
  Did you know kidney transplant is a treatment option for end stage renal disease? Here are five reasons to consider a transplant.

Treatment Options for People with Kidney Failure

Learn more about the different types of kidney disease treatments and find the one that works best for your lifestyle.

• Stay On the Job 
  Remaining employed may help you feel healthier, happier and more financially secure .
• Get More Employment Information
  Download booklets with helpful tips and information for keeping your job and understanding your insurance options.
• Contact an Insurance Specialist
  If you are a DaVita patient and have questions regarding your insurance, an insurance specialist can help.

Understand Your Insurance Options

Overwhelmed by your insurance options? Check out this breakdown of the 6 most common health insurance options.

• DaVita^® Health Portal
  For DaVita dialysis patients, take control of your health with access to your dialysis lab results, medications and more.
• Find a Dialysis Center
  Easily search for and choose a dialysis center in your area.

Adrienne Finds Online Support for Her Kidney Disease

With the help of DaVita.com tools, DaVita patient Adrienne has been able to plan kidney-friendly meals, check her lab results, know her immunization schedule and more. Learn how DaVita.com can help you manage your kidney disease.