Q. I’m told I have long-standing kidney disease and that in a few years time I may have to go on dialysis. By then I’ll be over 70. Will my age stop me from getting dialysis? I wouldn’t like to be left to die slowly.
A. Don’t worry. Nowadays in each region anyone who needs dialysis has a place in the renal unit, and age doesn’t come into consideration when the decision is made. Presumably you are on a long-term kidney management scheme, keeping your blood pressure down and eating sensibly. If you have diabetes then you will need to control both your blood pressure and your sugar and insulin levels. Today the mix of medicines for people like you does help a lot in keeping the need for dialysis at bay.
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