Dialysis Basics > Saving Your Heart
People with kidney disease will sometimes also have a heart that is larger than normal.
This is something that happens over a long period of time and causes the heart to pump blood slowly.
This results in fluid build-up.
There are some tests you can have to see if your heart is too large. The most common test is called an ECHO, which is short for echocardiogram.
Some people also have an MRI or a CT. If you have not had one of these tests in the past several months your Care Partner will help you get an appointment.
If the test shows that you have an enlarged heart there are several things you can do to help keep your heart as healthy as possible.
1. Ask your doctor or nurse what your true weight is (without extra water in your body). This is called your "dry weight".
2. Once you know your dry weight, it is important that you stay as close to that as possible. You should not gain more than 2-4 kg of fluid between your dialysis treatments.
3. Get enough dialysis. Anyone with an enlarged heart should dialyze at least four hours, three times a week. More is better. Talk with your doctor about the amount of time on dialysis that is best for you.
4. Take your medicines. Your doctor will prescribe a special medicine for your heart. It is important to take all your medicines as prescribed.
5. Follow a low sodium diet. Ask your dietitian for information on the diet.
6. Be physically active 20 to 30 minutes a day to help get rid of excess fluids.