How much fluid can a person with chronic kidney disease on peritoneal dialysis (PD) consume?

Generally, peritoneal dialysis patients begin with a fluid restriction of 64 ounces or 2000 ml (2 liters) each day. This amount is then adjusted up or down based on how much fluid is removed during the peritoneal dialysis treatments or exchanges. Residual kidney function (residual renal function) also helps determine the fluid restriction. There is also a connection between dietary sodium and fluid restriction for a peritoneal dialysis patient. A high sodium diet can cause too much fluid retention, and increased thirst. To remove the extra fluid, PD patients must use a higher glucose concentration in the dialysis solution. This is not the best way to control fluid because it increases calories absorbed from glucose in the solution. Over time, this can cause unwanted body fat weight gain. A lower sodium diet with attention to fluid intake helps peritoneal dialysis patients to balance fluid and prevent problems such as:

·        puffiness and swelling

·        high blood pressure

·        damage to the heart

·        difficulty breathing and fluid build up in the lungs

·        increased thirst

Dialysis patients are advised to weigh themselves daily to help keep track of weight and fluid balance.