I Have Been Diagnosed With End-Stage Kidney Disease. Am I At An Increased Risk Of Heart Attack?
— -- Question: I have been diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease. Am I at an increased risk of heart attack?
Answer: Patients who develop end-stage kidney disease -- and we define that basically when the kidneys are working at such a low level that dialysis is required, whether hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis -- basically, survival is not an option without an artificial kidney.
That yes, the likelihood of developing blockages in the arteries of the heart is more common, the likelihood of developing a heart attack is more common, and the prognosis after a heart attack is worse.
Patients in this situation often will have a kidney transplant, which may somewhat improve the prognosis. However, we need more studies in this area, before we can say that for sure.
Next: When And How Should I Discuss End-Of-Life Issues With A Relative Who Has Heart Disease?
