Essential Tips for Dialysis Guests During Heatwaves

essentials tips for dialysis guests

Summer is a season of beachy adventures, tropical fruits, ice cream, water parks, and much more! However, it is also a season of soaring temperatures. When heat waves become more frequent, staying cool and comfortable can be challenging, especially for individuals undergoing dialysis therapy. Many problems such as dehydration, infections, and heatstroke can be caused because of it. Therefore, it is very crucial for dialysis guests to keep themselves healthy and cool during the summer.

Here are some essential tips to help dialysis guests cope with the heat and minimise its impact on their health:

Stay mindful about fluid intake:

Hydration during summer is important; however, managing fluid intake is critical for dialysis guests. One should consult a doctor/dietician, set a daily fluid intake, and follow a personalised summer diet.

Dialysis session timings:

Scheduling dialysis treatments when the weather is comparatively cooler, such as early morning or evening, is the best way to avoid the peak heat hours of the day. This can help minimise the chance of dehydration and discomfort during dialysis.

Staying clean and protected:

Heat and sweat can increase the risk of infection. Keeping the dialysis access site clean and dry will protect it from dirt and bacteria. If there are any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, it is necessary to contact a healthcare provider.

Staying cool indoors:

If one does not have air conditioning, using plants, vetiver mats, and insulation mats, are great natural alternatives to keeping your house cool. These will lower indoor temperatures and create a comfortable atmosphere at home.

Dress according to the weather:

Lightweight and loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics keeps the body cool and sweat-free. Light-coloured clothing can also reflect sunlight and heat, helping one stay more comfortable outdoors.

Protection from the sun:

Protection against the sun’s harmful rays can be achieved by wearing a hat, anti-UV sunglasses, and using a good quality sunscreen with a high SPF. Seeking shade, carrying water, and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight are also recommended measures.

Monitoring Symptoms:

One should be mindful of how their body responds to the heat. If one experiences signs such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke, dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, etc., seeking medical attention is advised.

Staying in touch with a healthcare provider and following their guidance is an excellent way to stay safe. Individuals on dialysis can still beat the heat and enjoy the summer season; however, the first and foremost priority is self-care and listening to their body’s needs, especially during extreme weather conditions. By following these tips and taking proactive measures to stay cool and hydrated, dialysis guests can navigate heat waves safely and minimise the impact of high temperatures on their health and well-being. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay healthy!

To learn more about fluid intake and calculation, click here.

 

 

 

 

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