I'm a new HD patient and have been on PD for 3 years and just transferred to HD. At 25 years old I have enjoyed training weights for some years. On PD I was always able to drain out my fluid and do weights then drain back in again.
Having been on HD dialysis for several months via a PermCath connected to the neck and exiting from my chest then this has not been too much of a problem but I've just taken it easier and have had no problems with the lines.
I'm pretty much being forced down the route of having an AV fistula created for more permanent access. I have many concerns over how this would effect my weight training activities as some people say they can't even lift a heavy bag of groceries and others do heavier work with the AV fistula. I have had to give a lot for dialysis and would like to hold onto weight training if possible!. I had a meeting with my surgeons today and they feel I should have it anyway and see how I get on but I'm keen to research it and see if anyone else has any views on this as they seemed very unsure of the effects as it is something they have never come across.
Also are there any more permanent forms of neckline that are known to last longer than the PermCath? if I was thinking of not having the fistula. From what I've heard the PermCath I have could last up to a year or two but not much longer. I have heard of new kinds of lines coming on to the market that are known to last longer than the PermCath but whether they would available in the UK I'm not sure.
Any ideas or views would be greatly appreciated as I have to make up my mind pretty soon.
Thanks

Neal

One, you want a fistula - best access and best results for your overall health.

Two, we have a patient who just went to the national weight lifting contest in his weight class who has a fistula and has no difficulties whatsoever with his access or lifting. Using common sense, building up weight as you start slowly, will find you having continuing success with your weight lifting.

Best wishes for your improving good health.

Thanks Julia, its nice to know there are other people out there who face the same issues and its encouraging to hear of your patient as the surgeons at my hospital were not really that sure of the effects.
I have certainly been in two minds about it all. I guess it must be fine if you have someone who goes to national contests for weights. I only do it to keep fit and healthy!.
As it turns out my neck line is actually playing up a bit now and they are having trouble achieving the 350 pump speed I need to get a good kt/v and they are talking of more hours so it seems like the best option is to go with a fistula. Presumably I'd need to leave the weights alone for a good month or so after the opera1tion?.
Is it a radial fistula that your patient has or a bracial one?. I have the choice of which to go for so I want which ever is best. Is it a normal fistula or a gortex graft? They refuse to do graft's at my hospital as they say they feel the infection rate is quite high although most other UK hospitals use them.

Thanks Again

Neal

quote:

Is it a radial fistula that your patient has or a bracial one?. I have the choice of which to go for so I want which ever is best. Is it a normal fistula or a gortex graft? They refuse to do graft's at my hospital as they say they feel the infection rate is quite high although most other UK hospitals use them.

Thanks Again

Neal[/B]

Neal,

Our patient has a radial fistula. Do what your physician and vascular surgeon deem best for you based on your vein studies. Avoid a synthetic graft if possible. A natural fistula is the very best option for good hemodialysis delivery. They can last many, many years, whereas grafts do not. Read the literature - fistulas are the number one choice for the best possible results.