I’ve always been a whirlwind of energy, my mind and body racing from one thing to the next. Diagnosed with ADHD in my teens, I have learned to cope with my symptoms with a combination of will power and coping strategies. But when I was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) at the age of 36 I found myself overwhelmed with the thought of managing two different types of conditions at the same time.
Each morning, I wake with a flurry of activity. Normally scrambling for a cup of something hot to wake my tired body, even though my mind is already swimming with a million thoughts. It had taken many years to gain a good and reliable morning routine, but with the introduction of so many new medications I struggled at first to remember to take them! The consequences were a nightmare, elevated blood pressure and far too much ankle and foot swelling.
New dietary restrictions initially caused a lot of issues as well. Working in a fast paced and busy job, I sometimes had to eat on the go, not even considering the impact the high salt diet had on my body. I was told I should be reducing the amount of sodium in my diet to help reduce the pressure on my kidneys, which I initially struggled with because my routine had to change dramatically. It was something I had to adapt to – a healthier, low salt diet. I had to spend much more time in the kitchen making healthy meals and healthy snacks. Following recipes had always been a struggle, but it was something I had to persist with to come through healthier.
Stress and worry about my new condition often kept me awake late at night. I constantly worried about my kidney function, new medications and new way of life. My mind raced with worst-case scenarios and things I may have to deal with in the future. I had so many sleepless nights, I had lost count. The morning after I would struggle with the simplest of tasks, as I was so tired. Mind still racing, still worrying, still scared.
Despite all the worries and issues, I was determined to beat them once and for all. I knew it would be really hard work, so when I met my future wife we worked together to make a plan to ease everything on my overworked mind. Lucinda helped me prepare and organize things much more easily. We set my medications into a pill box organiser, she helped me with reminders on my phone to help with appointments etc. The best help she gave me was in the kitchen. We worked together to make healthy and nutritious meals, which we both enjoy.
Gradually, everything became a little easier. My new techniques are a part of my routine and managing things has become slightly less difficult. I still have days where things become too much, but with the support network I have and my own coping techniques – things are working a lot better than what they once did.
Having CKD can be very tough. You get days where you’re so tired that you can barely function. Days where your ankles are so swollen that you can barely walk. Adding ADHD into the mix makes that much more complicated. You want to sleep, but your mind is thinking a million thoughts. You’re so tired and you can barely move, but your body wants to keep moving. It can be very overwhelming, but with the right help you can succeed.
Last Reviewed on 9 October 2024
