Traveling with Kidney Disease: A Guide to Dialysis and Safe Travel

A small organ with a vital role, the kidney is essential for maintaining life through waste excretion, electrolyte regulation, blood pressure control, and more. When kidney function declines due to conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or glomerulonephritis, it can progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD). If CKD worsens to end-stage renal failure, patients often require dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive. As the population ages and diabetes prevalence increases, the number of individuals with CKD is steadily rising. According to the Korean Society of Nephrology’s ‘End Stage Kidney Disease Fact Sheet 2024’, approximately 120,000 people in Korea currently receive dialysis treatment.

The Challenges of Travel for Dialysis Patients

For many dialysis patients, the frequent and time-consuming nature of treatment – typically three times a week for about four hours per session – can feel restrictive, making travel seem impossible. But, experts emphasize that travel is often achievable with careful planning, and preparation.

Planning Your Trip: Key Considerations

The most crucial aspect of traveling with kidney disease is coordinating your dialysis schedule. Here’s a breakdown of how to make it work:

Hemodialysis

• Advance Planning: Contact dialysis centers near your destination well in advance to schedule treatments.
• Medical Documentation: Carry essential medical records, including dialysis records, test results, and a letter from your doctor outlining your treatment requirements. For international travel, an English medical certificate is essential.
• Medication: Pack an adequate supply of all necessary medications.
• Information Gathering: Research medical facilities near your travel destination in case of emergencies.

Peritoneal Dialysis

Traveling with peritoneal dialysis, often referred to as “at-home dialysis,” is generally easier. Because patients perform this type of dialysis independently, treatment can often be continued while traveling.

• Automatic Peritoneal Dialysis: Patients using automatic peritoneal dialysis can often switch to manual exchanges during their trip.
• Dialysate Delivery: Dialysis fluid can be delivered directly to your travel destination. Domestic deliveries are usually straightforward, and some companies offer international delivery services.

Diet and Hydration on the Road

Maintaining dietary control and proper hydration is vital while traveling. Patients should:

• Limit Salt Intake: Reduce consumption of salty foods.
• Potassium Control: Be mindful of potassium intake.
• Hydration: Avoid excessive water intake.
• Adherence to Schedule: Strictly adhere to your dialysis schedule and medication times.

When to Postpone Travel

If you experience any concerning changes in your physical condition – such as severe swelling, difficulty breathing, fever, or dizziness – before or during your trip, it’s best to postpone travel and seek medical attention.

Resources for Finding Dialysis Centers

• Korea: The Korean Society of Nephrology website offers a “Find an artificial kidney room” service to locate dialysis hospitals: https://www.kords-ksn.co.kr/Hospital/HospitalList_HD.php

Expert Advice

“When dialysis patients plan to travel, it is important to consult with their doctor and make a plan that takes into account their dialysis schedule and health status,” advises Kim Do-hyeong, a professor of nephrology at Hallym University Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital. “You can enjoy your trip more safely if you carefully manage your diet, take medications, and manage your dialysis schedule while traveling.”

Traveling with kidney disease requires careful planning, but it is possible. By working closely with your healthcare team and taking the necessary precautions, you can continue to enjoy new experiences and maintain a good quality of life.