How CKD And Dialysis Patients Can Get The Most Out Of Their Memorial Day Weekend

 
 

Memorial Day is a dear holiday for many because it honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the liberties which are cherished in the United States. The Memorial Day Weekend typically consists of fun activities outside, by the pool, at the park, at a barbecue or inside around the dinner table. However, many Chronic Kidney Disease and Dialysis patients feel left out during the festivities of this special holiday. What's worse, for some patients that do take part in the Memorial Day events, they wind up in the Emergency Room as a result of side effects from their participation. That is why KidneyBuzz.com has identified a list of fun activities for which most Chronic Kidney Disease and Dialysis patients can partake as well as safety tips to help patients reduce the risk of complications after the Memorial Day Weekend.  

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Some fun activities which most Chronic Kidney Disease and Dialysis patients can enjoy include: 

1.) Watching a movie: While movies depicting war are not always factually accurate, they are a form of art that help us to better understand the challenges faced by soldiers and the sacrifices that so many individuals and families have made over the years. Some compelling movies that have been suggested to best depict American wars include A Farewell to Arms (1932) and The Messenger (2009).

2.) Sending a care package: Work with the non-profits Operation USO Care Package, Any Soldier, and A Million Thanks to send care packages to soldiers stationed overseas. It is a wonderful way to show appreciation for the brave men and women who serve our country, and you also will feel great on the inside about having done a selfless act of kindness.
 
3.) Attend a Memorial Day Parade: Go online and check local newspapers or community calendars to learn about a Memorial Day parade near you. It is a great way to show your patriotism and your support for those who have lost loved ones in wars. Carry a fold-up chair so you do not have to stand during the event, and you should not feel obligated to stay until the end of the parade. Still, you should do your best to be very careful and avoid any infections while attending the public gathering. 

4. Enjoy Ice Cubes: Place blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries (or any combination of those) into an ice cube tray and cover with water. Freeze overnight for festive ice cubes in the morning. These cubes will help limit your thirst during the warm season. Moreover, studies have suggested that Chronic Kidney Disease patients may enjoy berries in moderation to gain a number of health benefits which include: Improving heart health, lowering blood pressure, maintaining healthy bones, better-managing Diabetes, bolstering mental health, and improving weight management.

5. Observe the National Moment of Remembrance: For Chronic Kidney Disease and Dialysis patients who wish to partake in Memorial Day traditions, they may consider spending a moment of silence in tribute to all of those who have fallen in the service of our country. The National Moment of Remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. (local time) on Memorial Day.

6. Learning more about Memorial Day: If Chronic Kidney Disease and Dialysis patients wish to learn more about Memorial Day, they can read a detailed history of the holiday at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website. Federaldisability.com wrote, "As you will learn, it traces back to the aftermath of the Civil War – and the concept actually is one that comes from ancient Greece."

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Another key aspect of Memorial Day is remaining safe. “Many of the factors that will determine your safety over Memorial Day Weekend or anytime this summer will come down to good decision-making and common sense,” said Dr. Angela Gardner (President of the American College of Emergency Physicians). The following simple precautions may help keep Chronic Kidney Disease patients safer, out of the ER, and most importantly - improve the chances of survival.

Tip 1: Food Safety — To avoid food poisoning, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture recommends cooking fresh poultry to 165 degrees, hamburgers to 160 degrees and beef to at least 145 degrees. Refrigerate all perishable food within 2 hours, 1 hour if the temperature outside is above 90 degrees. To guard against cross-contamination of bacteria, keep uncooked meats away from other foods. While food poisoning is harmful to all Chronic Kidney Disease patients, it is particularly dangerous for Kidney Transplant recipients who may vomit their vital Immunosuppressant Medication if they contract the virus. This may make it less effective and compromise the transplanted kidney:

Tip 2: Grill Safety — Patients should thoroughly clean a grill of any grease or dust. Check the tubes leading into the burner for any blockages from insects or food grease that can cause an uncontrolled fire. Do not use a grill in a garage, breezeway, carport and porch or near any surface that can catch fire. Also, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions that accompany the grill.

Tip 3: Fluid Intake Safety —Know your fluid intake and which drinks are best for your to enjoy. During various gatherings, some patients can get lost in the good times and accidentally drink more than they would usually. This can make Dialysis treatments more difficult or in severe cases cause patients to need emergency attention. Try to carry a bottle with only enough of your desired drink to meet your daily intake, and enjoy it at events. Once your container is empty, then you know that you have met your daily fluid limit. 

Tip 4: Sun Safety — Protect against sunburn and heat stroke. "Wear sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15 or higher and apply it generously throughout the day," said Healthnewsdigest.com. If you feel faint or nauseous, get in to a cool place immediately. 

Tip 5: Travel Safety — Wear your seat belt at all times. Make sure your vehicle has been properly serviced and is in good working shape before a long road trip. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings if you are in an unfamiliar place and know where the nearest emergency room is to you at all times in case of an emergency.

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How will you spend your Memorial Day? Feel free to leave a comment and share at the KidneyBuzz.com Facebook Fan Page which has over 40,000 Friends. Also, visit KidneyBuzz.com daily (1.2 million people reached this year) for the  latest breaking news, information, Daily Impact Meal, Inspirational Quotes, Products and Services which teach those with Chronic Kidney Disease, Dialysis, Kidney Transplant, Diabetes, and High Blood Pressure how to better manage and improve their lives. 

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