Nephrology, by video or in person
Kidney Failure and Dialysis
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Kidney Failure and Dialysis
- Tiredness and weakness
- Swelling of the legs, ankles, around the eyes or of the whole body
- Breathlessness
- Passing much less urine
- Nausea, vomiting and poor appetite
Kidney failure is when the kidneys can no longer remove enough waste and fluid from the body to keep you well. It usually develops slowly after years of chronic kidney disease, most often caused by high blood pressure or diabetes, but it can also happen suddenly with severe illness, dehydration, some medicines or herbal remedies, which is called acute kidney injury and may recover. At the end stage, dialysis or a kidney transplant is needed to stay alive. Haemodialysis cleans the blood through a machine, usually at a centre several times a week. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the belly and can be done at home. For some people, especially older people with other illnesses, care focused on symptoms without dialysis is a reasonable choice. Planning early with a kidney specialist, including preparing access for dialysis, makes starting it safer.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Tiredness and weakness
- Swelling of the legs, ankles, around the eyes or of the whole body
- Breathlessness
- Passing much less urine
- Nausea, vomiting and poor appetite
- Itchy skin and muscle cramps
- Difficulty concentrating, drowsiness or confusion
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now if someone is passing little or no urine, is breathless at rest, drowsy or confused, has chest pain, a fit, or is vomiting and unable to keep anything down, or if someone on dialysis misses a session and feels unwell. See a nephrologist if your eGFR is falling or you have been told your kidneys are failing, so dialysis, a transplant or other options can be planned before an emergency. Avoid herbal remedies and painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac without advice, as they can damage the kidneys further.
Treatment options
- Planning with a kidney specialist before dialysis is needed
- Haemodialysis at a dialysis centre, usually several times a week
- Peritoneal dialysis at home, for suitable people
- A kidney transplant from a matched donor, for suitable people
- Creating a fistula in the arm early, for safer haemodialysis
- Medicines for anaemia, blood pressure, bone health and fluid
- Diet advice on salt, potassium, phosphate and fluid
- Care focused on symptoms without dialysis, for some people who choose it
Common Questions
Is dialysis for life?
For kidney failure that will not recover, dialysis continues unless you have a kidney transplant. After sudden kidney injury, the kidneys sometimes recover and dialysis can stop.
Can a family member donate a kidney?
Often, yes, if they are healthy and a suitable match. A transplant team assesses both the donor and the person receiving the kidney.
Can I see a kidney specialist by video?
Yes, for planning, results and medicine reviews. A nephrologist can talk you and your family through the options, and arrange in-person care and dialysis access where needed.
Need Help?
A kidney specialist on a video call, who reads your kidney results, adjusts your medicines and says when you need to be seen in person.
See a nephrologist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified nephrology specialist near you.
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