Stopping dialysis is possible, but it may significantly shorten a person’s life expectancy. On average, they may continue to live for several days to weeks after stopping treatment.
Dialysis is a medical treatment that helps filter a person’s blood to remove toxins and other waste from the body when the kidneys cannot function, often due to kidney failure or advanced kidney disease.
According to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), dialysis typically helps extend a person’s life for 5 to 10 years, although some people have lived up to 30 years on dialysis.
While dialysis has several benefits, stopping dialysis significantly increases the risk of developing life threatening complications.
This article reviews what a person can expect when considering stopping dialysis care.
How long someone can live after stopping dialysis can vary significantly.
According to a 2022 review, the average life expectancy following stopping dialysis for end stage renal disease or kidney failure is 3 to 10 days.
A 2024 study found similar results. The average life expectancy was 4 days for stopping peritoneal dialysis, with a range of 2 to 11 days. After stopping hemodialysis, the average life expectancy was 6 days, with a range of 3 to 10 days.
However, according to a
The NKF and most studies report that survival after stopping dialysis typically lasts several days or weeks rather than years. Factors, such as kidney function and overall health, influence the duration of survival following treatment discontinuation.
A person does not necessarily need to take any specific action to stop dialysis. However, it’s important to discuss their decision with their healthcare team, which may include:
- doctors
- caretakers
- family members
- friends
Healthcare professionals may ask for details about why a person wants to stop dialysis. According to a 2018 study, some of the most common causes include:
- worsening health or inability to thrive
- acute medical complications
- severe, chronic problems
A healthcare professional can advise on steps to take to improve current treatments and how to prepare for the last week or so of life, since dialysis withdrawal often leads to death.
It’s also important for a person to discuss stopping dialysis with family and friends, but this can be very difficult, especially since stopping dialysis can mean being near the end of life.
When speaking with loved ones, a person can consider having members from their medical team present to support them and provide answers and resources to any questions that may arise.
Healthcare professionals typically consider stopping dialysis as end-of-life. This means the person may expect to die within a few days to weeks, usually from complications relating to kidney failure.
When a person stops receiving dialysis, they will no longer be able to process toxins in their blood or will have a diminished ability to filter toxins. The amount they can process will depend on the exact amount of kidney function they have remaining when they stop the treatment.
Toxins will continue to build up in the body until the person eventually dies. The buildup may cause increasing levels of fatigue or trouble breathing.
Continuing treatment will largely depend on the person’s preferences.
A doctor may recommend hospice care or palliative care for an individual nearing the end of life, although these types of care can be provided at any stage of the diagnosis. A person can apply for hospice care with the assistance of a social worker or independently.
A doctor can also prescribe medications to help manage discomfort. This can include diuretics, which can help prevent fluid buildup, as well as pain relievers or other therapies.
Healthcare professionals will strive to honor a person’s wishes regarding where they reside after dialysis treatment.
In some cases, home healthcare aids may be available, though location and insurance coverage can make this option unavailable or unsuitable.
A nursing home may be a suitable option for some people.
A social worker or healthcare professional can often help set up end-of-life care for the person. It is best for someone to speak with their healthcare team to determine their options before stopping dialysis.
The NKF notes that a person will not necessarily need to continue any special kidney diet when they stop dialysis.
However, an individual may choose to continue their kidney-friendly diet or eating plan. Some tips to support kidney health through diet
- reducing sodium or salt intake
- choosing fresh fruits and vegetables
- limiting foods high in phosphorus, such as:
- meats
- oatmeal and other brands
- dairy products
- beans and lentils
- dark-colored sodas
- preparing fresh meals at home
- limiting ultra-processed foods
Yes, according to the NKF, a person may restart dialysis after stopping.
However, it is unclear how many people choose to resume following the decision to stop or how stopping and then starting dialysis affects life expectancy.
A person who wishes to stop dialysis should discuss their thoughts with a treatment team member. If depression may be factoring into the decision, doctors may recommend speaking with a mental health professional.
If a person has not yet started dialysis, it is best to speak with a doctor or healthcare team if they have any concerns about the treatment. A doctor can provide information about dialysis, including its likely impact on life expectancy and quality of life.
A person’s doctor can also provide them with more ways to receive support. Connecting with support groups or other individuals experiencing a similar situation may help a person feel more supported and gain a deeper understanding of their emotions.
Some support groups are available from organizations like the American Association of Kidney Patients.
Stopping dialysis is often end-of-life, meaning a person will die within a few days to weeks.
Dialysis can help extend someone’s life by filtering their blood to remove toxins, waste, and excess fluid. Once a person stops dialysis, however, toxins begin to accumulate in the body, which may lead to feelings of increased fatigue.
A person may choose to stay at home or receive care at a healthcare facility, such as a hospital.
It is best for a person to speak with their healthcare team if they have concerns about dialysis or wish to discuss stopping the treatment.