Author: Dr Andy Stein & Janet Wild

When kidneys fail it is a major, life-changing event.  It is natural that anyone facing kidney failure (ESRF) should seek out information. Although treatment is lifelong and complex, there is no reason why patients should not live long and fulfilling lives after their kidneys have failed. This book provides the information on dialysis, diet, drug treatment and social & psychological support that will enable them to do so.

This is a practical handbook for anyone with long-term kidney failure and their families. Answering hundreds of real questions asked by people with end-stage renal failure, it offers positive, clear and medically accurate advice on every aspect of living with the condition.

Most patients and their families want to know the truth - no matter how grim - and they want to know it now .

• Answers over 450 real questions on all aspects of kidney failure
• Practical advice on how to carry on with ordinary life - holidays, going out, work and employment rights
• Discussions of how relationships with families and friends may be affected, and information about sex and fertility
• Explains all the technical jargon in layman’s terms and answers the questions you might feel uneasy asking your doctor
• Details of over 40 organisations and websites to visit for practical and financial advice and support

Sample questions:

• Can you tell me simply how normal kidneys work?
• Will my original kidney disease come back and damage a kidney transplant?
• Do I need a special diet because I have kidney failure?
• What are the symptoms of kidney failure?
• Do I get a free choice between dialysis and a transplant?
• Are there any risks in having a kidney biopsy?
• I need to have a renal angiogram. What does this involve and what will it tell the doctor?
• What is an MRI scan?
• Which is better, CAPD or APD?
• When I drain my dialysis fluid out it looks cloudy. Should I be worried?
• Is it possible to go on holiday while on PD?
• How often and for how long must I dialyse?
• What are the pros and cons of having a kidney transplant?
• How long will I have to take off work after a transplant?
• Can I have sex while connected to the APD machine?
• Where can I get advice about benefits and grants?
• How can I be sure a drug trial will be safe if I agree to take part?

“Should help patients take up the challenge of kidney failure, and use the treatments on offer to maximum advantage, thereby enabling them to live longer, healthier lives.”
Terry Feest, Professor of Clinical Nephrology, Southmead Hospital, Bristol

“An absolute ‘must have.’”
Timothy F Statham OBE, Chief Executive, National Kidney Federation UK


For further information about kidney failure please contact the National Kidney Federation, www.kidney.org.uk, the only UK charity run by kidney patients for kidney patients.

Normal Price: £14.99
Special Offer Price: £12.99