Kidney Disease
Frequently Asked Questions
15. Is dialysis a cure for kidney failure?
No. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis do not cure kidney failure. They are treatments that help replace the function of your kidneys and may help you feel better and live longer. But, if you have many health problems and are age 75 or older, studies show that treatment with dialysis may not be beneficial.
Although patients with kidney failure are now living longer than ever, over the years kidney disease can cause problems such as depression, heart disease, bone disease, arthritis, nerve damage, and malnutrition. To stay as healthy as possible while on dialysis, follow your dietitian’s recommendations, take your medications, and continue to follow the lifestyle habits you adopted to slow the progression of kidney disease.
