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Learning you or a loved one has chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end stage kidney disease (ESKD) can be overwhelming. The good news is that you’re not alone on your kidney care journey. Here are five things you can do to take control of your health now.

1. Find a kidney doctor.

You’ll want to find a kidney doctor, or nephrologist, as soon as possible. Your nephrologist is there to partner with you and guide you to understanding what life is like with kidney disease, and how best to adapt to treatments and medications while maintaining your quality of life. When you talk with a nephrologist, you may want to start by asking, “How can I lead a ‘normal’ life when I go on dialysis?” Read and print “Working with a Nephrologist” for more questions to ask your doctor.

2. Create a support team.

In addition to your care team, which will likely include your doctor, nurses, dietitian and social worker, you’ll also need the support of your loved ones. Let your family and friends know about your diagnosis and that you may need their help in the future.

3. Connect with others in the kidney community.

There are many support groups and social media groups for people with kidney disease and their care partners. It may help to connect online with others who can relate to what you’re going through.  

²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ home dialysis patients can also join virtual support groups through the ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Care Connect® app. These groups are led by ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ® Home Dialysis support specialists and encourage live conversations between patients to ask questions and share experiences. Sessions are available for ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ patients at no extra cost and can be scheduled daily or weekly within the ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Care Connect app.

4. Learn all you can about kidney health.

Your renal social worker, nurse or doctor can answer your questions about kidney disease. However, it will help to learn everything you can about kidney health—including diet tips. (For example, many people with CKD must limit fluids and specific nutrients such as potassium or phosphorus.) This can help you feel more empowered as you adjust to living with kidney disease.

A great way to learn the basics of kidney disease is with a no-cost, online Kidney Smart® class. One class covers CKD basics, diet and nutrition, understanding the importance of insurance and staying employed, and more. Find a class here.

5. Continue to do what you love.

Having kidney disease may require some lifestyle changes, but it doesn’t mean you can’t still do the things you enjoy. ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ offers treatment options for different lifestyles and schedules, including in-center dialysis, nocturnal dialysis (done in-center overnight) and home dialysis. Talk to your nephrologist about which treatment option might be best for you.