What causes excessive fatigue and loss of appetite during kidney dialysis?
Patient: My mother, 79, is undergoing kidney dialysis, has other issues (primarily diabetes-related issues), has recently become moodier, more lethargic, has no appetite at all, and is showing signs of Alzheimer s. Her meds change often. Would there be any benefit in getting her to a Gerontologist? Thank you. Doctor: Hello,  I work in a hemodialysis center. Based on these symptoms, first I would check for anemia (Hemoglobin level, hematocrit and iron studies) and second for dialysis adequacy (blood urea nitrogen pre and post dialysis).  If the results are acceptable, then your mother should consult a Gerontologist.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.   Regards, Dr. Elton Halili, General & Family Physician