Dialysis saves lives for those with kidney failure, but myths rooted in fear often prevent patients from seeking out this necessary treatment. In the U.S., 785,000 people are living with ESKD, and about 70% of them are on dialysis for sustenance. Despite its life-extending benefits, many patients delay care due to myths about pain, permanent dependence, or poor quality of life, which can lead to worsened health outcomes or hospitalizations.
Families that believe such myths, therefore, lose opportunities to improve the well-being of their relatives. Home dialysis, for instance, is now more accessible, which offers patients freedom and better health outcomes.
Read on as we debunk some common myths associated with dialysis and vascular access, which will help patients and their families make clear and confident choices about their care.
Myth: Dialysis is Always Painful
Reality: For most people, dialysis is not painful.
You might feel slight discomfort when the needles are inserted into your vascular access site, but the procedure itself is usually painless. The doctor may use local anesthetics such as lidocaine at the fistula needle site before needle insertion to decrease any pain. If you experience persistent pain, it often occurs due to complications like clotting or infection, which you should inform your doctor immediately.
Takeaway: If you feel discomfort during dialysis, talk to your healthcare team. Early intervention can make your sessions more comfortable and effective.
Read more: Dialysis and its types
Myth: Vascular Access is a One-Time Procedure
Reality: Vascular access requires ongoing care.
After a fistula or graft is created, it’s not “set it and forget it.” Over time, issues like narrowing, clotting, or infections may occur. Therefore, routine checkups and maintenance are important. You should consider signs such as listening for a “thrill” (a vibration that can be felt over the fistula) or “bruit” (a whooshing sound), which can catch many problems quite early. You do not need to worry, as most of these issues can be fixed with minor procedures.
Takeaway: Always go for regular follow-ups. Proper daily care of your vascular access reduces the risk of additional surgeries.
Myth: Tunneled Central Venous Catheters (CVCs) Are Just as Good as Fistulas or Grafts
Reality: Tunneled CVCs are temporary and carry higher risks.
CVCs are used mostly in emergencies, but long-term dialysis should not be done because there is an increased risk of infection, clotting, and damage to the central veins. Arteriovenous (AV) fistulas are mainly considered because they provide better blood flow, are durable, and are less susceptible to infection. Grafts are not perfect alternatives, but they are safer than CVCs for long-term use.
Takeaway: Work closely with your doctor to make the switch from a CVC to a fistula or graft to increase safety and improve treatment outcomes.
Myth: Dialysis Means Giving Up Your Normal Life
Reality: Dialysis can fit into your life with the right support.
Yes, dialysis takes time, but many patients continue to work, travel, and pursue hobbies. Options like home dialysis and flexible scheduling can help you fit treatments into your life, not the other way around.
Takeaway: With planning and support, dialysis can become a part of your routine without taking over your life.
Myth: Dialysis Is Only for the Elderly
Reality: Dialysis is for anyone with kidney failure, regardless of age.
Individuals of all age groups can have chronic kidney disease (CKD), which may require them to have dialysis at some point in their lives. Although dialysis is more common in elderly patients, treatment decisions are based on medical needs, not age. Therefore, young adults and even children may need dialysis.
Takeaway: Dialysis is a treatment based on medical necessity. It helps patients of all ages live healthier lives.
Read more: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options of Chronic Kidney Disease
Myth: You Can Skip Dialysis If You Feel Fine
Reality: Skipping dialysis can lead to life-threatening complications.
Even when you feel fine, skipping dialysis will allow toxins like urea and fluid to accumulate in your body, resulting in serious complications, such as shortness of breath, high blood pressure, heart failure, and even death. Waste products are cleaned from the system via regular dialysis, all in an effort to maintain homeostasis and prevent permanent damage in the long term.
Takeaway: Adhering to your dialysis schedule is vital for your health and survival. Missing treatments is never safe.
Myth: Once a Fistula is Created, It’s Ready for Use
Reality: Fistulas need time to mature before they are functional.
The AV fistula takes an average of 4 to 6 weeks or even longer to mature. In this duration, it would enable healthy blood flow and adapt itself to repeated venous puncture for later use. Starting up too early with an immature fistula can lead to complications, such as insufficient blood flow or even clotting of the fistula, which would endanger its function.
Takeaway: You should plan your dialysis access early and allow sufficient time for maturation to avoid delays in treatment.
Myth: Dialysis Patients Can’t Travel
Reality: Traveling with dialysis is possible with careful planning.
Patients can arrange treatments at dialysis centers near their destination or opt for portable home dialysis machines. Many dialysis centers worldwide accommodate traveling patients and coordinate with your healthcare provider for continuity of care while you are away from your home.
Takeaway: Dialysis should not limit your ability to travel. Proper preparation ensures that you can explore new places while managing your treatment.
Myth: Vascular Access Maintenance is the Responsibility of the Healthcare Team
Reality: Patients play a vital role in care.
Taking care of your vascular access is essential, and you play a key role in keeping it healthy. Every day, take a few minutes to gently clean the site and check for signs like redness, swelling, or anything that feels unusual. If you notice something early, like a small infection or clot, it can save you from bigger problems later. Avoid putting pressure on your access arm. It will prevent damage and keep things working smoothly.
Takeaway: You know your body better than anyone. If something’s wrong, you’re likely the first one to know, so don’t hesitate to take action. Consider this as teamwork with your health provider. What you do every day is as important as the care you get from them.
Myth: Dialysis Is a Death Sentence
Reality: Dialysis is a life-saving treatment that improves quality of life.
Although kidney failure is a serious condition, dialysis allows people to live longer and healthier lives. Many more dialysis patients achieve long-term survival. They continue working, engaging in other activities, and pursuing personal interests. Advances in treatment and support systems have improved survival in these patients significantly.
Takeaway: Dialysis is not the end; it is a start to good healthcare management and an opportunity for life satisfaction.
Face Dialysis with Facts, Not Fear!
Misinformation causes fear, but knowing the facts helps you make smart choices for a healthier life. Dialysis is not only about just staying alive; it’s about living well, being active, and taking chances you may have thought were gone.
So, take responsibility for your own health by collaborating closely with your health team. Be vigilant about your vascular access, and do not hesitate to ask or discuss any concerns bothering you. Dialysis may change your routine, but it doesn’t have to limit your life.
