Water Intake during Dialysis ? Tips to Limit Water Intake
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During kidney dialysis, it is crucial to pay attention to water intake, especially in hot weather when experiencing dry mouth or thirst. Malaysia, being a tropical country, has hot weather that leads to increased sweating, resulting in a natural physiological response of feeling thirsty or having a dry mouth. For individuals undergoing kidney dialysis, this can pose a significant challenge. Due to impaired kidney function, they cannot effectively eliminate the daily intake of water and toxins, requiring blood dialysis (commonly known as kidney dialysis) to assist in metabolizing bodily waste.
Excessive accumulation of water or increased body weight can lead to complications during dialysis, affecting blood pressure, increasing the burden on the heart, and causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, hypertension, congestive heart failure, pulmonary edema, and swelling of the feet. Therefore, managing water intake is crucial for individuals undergoing kidney dialysis to avoid complications related to excessive body water and maintain the health of the heart and lungs. In addition to managing water intake, individuals undergoing kidney dialysis should also pay attention to their diet to prevent the accumulation of uric acid in the body. Uric acid build-up can lead to gout, a painful form of arthritis, which can further complicate the health of individuals undergoing dialysis. Including foods that help ward off gout naturally, such as berries, cherries, and low-fat dairy products, can help maintain overall health and reduce the risk of additional complications.
How can individuals manage dry mouth or thirst in hot weather while adhering to restricted water intake? Here are 8 tips to help alleviate the discomfort of thirst for individuals undergoing kidney dialysis:
1. Avoid Highly Seasoned Foods
Foods with strong flavors and high sodium content, such as salty snacks, pickled foods, processed foods, and barbecued items, can increase thirst. Spicy foods like spicy hotpot or sour and spicy dishes can also contribute to a higher need for water. Cooking at home allows better control of seasoning, and opting for naturally low-sodium foods like fresh fruits and vegetables can be beneficial.
2. Allocate Daily Water Allowance
Pre-allocate the daily water allowance, considering both medications that require water and the remaining water intake distributed throughout the day. Knowing the measurements of commonly used containers, such as cups, cans, and bottles, can aid in better water control.
3. Include Liquid in Food Calculations
Include liquids from foods such as soups, porridge, and noodle soup in the daily water limit.
4. Moisten the Mouth
If feeling dry, suck on ice cubes to gradually increase oral moisture. Rinsing the mouth with water and then spitting it out can help maintain oral moisture. Opt for cold drinks rather than hot ones to quench thirst. Additionally, sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production and prevent dry mouth.
5. Choose Hydrating Ingredient
Incorporate hydrating ingredients like lemon, mint leaves, or lime into plain water to enhance the flavor without adding extra sugar or calories. Foods with high water content, such as cucumber, winter melon, loofah, watermelon, and tomatoes, can also help alleviate dry mouth.
6. Use Moisturizing Tools
Apply a wet cotton swab or lip balm to moisten the lips and reduce dryness. Regularly clean teeth or use mouthwash to keep the mouth fresh and moist.
7. Avoid Overexposure to Sun
Minimize direct exposure to sunlight and stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas to reduce the risk of excessive sweating and thirst. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
8. Engage in Moderate Exercise
Some kidney patients may avoid exercise, fearing excessive fluid loss. However, moderate exercise promotes sweating, helps maintain weight control, and contributes to overall health.
9. Control Blood Sugar Levels
For individuals with diabetes undergoing kidney dialysis, controlling blood sugar levels is essential. Managing sugar and carbohydrate intake in food helps control thirst, as increased thirst is a symptom of diabetes.
Summary
These tips are provided as general guidance and should not replace professional medical advice. It is crucial to tailor dietary recommendations based on individual circumstances and dietary restrictions, and a personalized diet plan should be provided under the supervision of a certified dietitian. Connect with Home Dietitians for a tailored plan of renal diet !
