Dialysis Basics > Anemia on Peritoneal Dialysis
Many people whose kidneys no longer work have “anemia”.
Anemia means that your blood does not have enough red blood cells.
This happens because healthy kidneys produce a hormone that tells your bones to make red blood cells.
When your kidneys are not able to produce that hormone, your “hemoglobin” may be too low.
Hemoglobin is a measure of the red blood cells in your blood.
Your red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of your body.
If your hemoglobin is low you may feel tired and weak.
The goal is to have your hemoglobin number from 10 – 12.
Ask your doctor, nurse or Care Partner what your hemoglobin is.
If your hemoglobin is low, you will need weekly injections of a special medication to help you make red blood cells. We can teach you to give it to yourself at home, or you can come to the clinic and let the nurse do it.
Red blood cells contain iron. If you do not have enough red blood cells, you may not have enough iron. If your iron is low, you may need to get iron through a vein, given by the nurse at the clinic.
Your care team at the dialysis center will check your hemoglobin and iron on a regular basis and adjust your medications as needed.