Bute Kidney Patients Support group was established in 2002 with the primary purpose of campaigning to have a satellite dialysis unit sited on the island to save patients travelling to the mainland to receive dialysis three times per week. Due to various factors, the campaigning became protracted and the Group decided that it should also have as an aim, that of providing locally available information and support for people with renal problems and their families. BKPSG meets regularly and welcomes new members whether or not they have kidney disease. We try to provide encouragement and support, answer questions and help keep members informed of local and national developments.
Kidney failure can be caused by several conditions and lifestyles, including: diabetes, high blood pressure, polycystic kidney disease, lupus erythematosis; renovascular disease; kidney stones; overuse of analgesics; and drug misuse.
This involves inserting two needles usually into the arm, to allow blood to be removed from the body, passed through an artificial kidney and then returned to the body. It is normally undertaken in hospital 3 days a week for 4 to 4.5 hours depending on need. However, in some instances, if there is suitable accommodation available, it can be done at home, allowing the patient to dialyse at a time convenient to him/ her.
This form of dialysis is done in the patient’s own home with supplies delivered regularly. Fluid is introduced through a permanent tube into the abdomen and flushed out every night or via regular exchanges during the day. The advantage of this process means that there is no need to attend a medical facility
Only suitable for some patients, particularly those under 70 years of age and in relatively good health. Suitable kidneys can be from a relative, partner, friend or unknown donor. Transplants have a good success rate but the organ can sometimes be rejected. The patient can then go back on dialysis and most can go back onto the transplant list
Hospital dieticians provide extensive guidance based on individual need. The most onerous restriction is the intake of liquids – 1 or 1.5 litres of fluid per day maximum is usual.
Living on Bute means the NHS recommended travel time of 30 minutes cannot be achieved. Hospital transport is provided but it can be a long day for renal patients. Weather conditions can also cause problems.