2026-02-18 Facebook Live - Kidney Q&A

FB Live – Feb 18th: In this episode of Ask the Doctor, Dr. Velma Scantlebury focuses on a critical topic for kidney patients—heart health. February is Heart Disease Awareness Month, and heart disease remains the number one cause of death for kidney patients. Dr. Scantlebury explains why kidney disease and heart disease often go hand in hand, particularly for patients with high blood pressure and diabetes (the two leading causes of kidney failure and major contributors to cardiovascular disease), and also addresses many other kidney-related questions. 

For dialysis patients, she emphasizes the importance of managing fluid gains between treatments. Excess fluid forces the heart to work harder, can accumulate in tissues or the lungs, and may lead to shortness of breath and long-term cardiac damage. Even after a successful transplant, ongoing cardiology follow-up is essential to monitor for progressive heart disease and protect long-term health. 

The episode also addresses a common and frustrating symptom for dialysis patients: dry, itchy skin. Dr. Scantlebury explains that elevated phosphorus levels are often the underlying cause, though environmental factors like low humidity can contribute. She discusses practical solutions such as hydrating lotions and when it may be appropriate to consider options like calamine lotion or antihistamines (always making sure you consult your healthcare provider). In some cases, a dermatologist may be needed to rule out medication side effects. 

Dr. Scantlebury tackles why many patients feel weak or unwell after dialysis. Often, it’s related to large fluid shifts, when significant volume is removed in just a few hours, and can leave the body feeling depleted and dehydrated, almost like it’s been “wrung out.” She explains how minimizing fluid gains between treatments helps reduce these drastic shifts and may improve how patients feel afterward. For some, home dialysis options may offer gentler, more frequent treatments that keep the body closer to balance. 

This episode is packed with practical guidance to help kidney patients protect their hearts, feel better after dialysis, and manage common symptoms—empowering listeners to take proactive steps toward better overall health. 

We invite you to join us for our live events and ask your kidney-related questions! Find us on both Instagram and Facebook: 

• IG Live @patientcitizens  
• Facebook Live www.facebook.com/patientcitizens