Quality of life in hemodialysis patients

During the last decades, more emphasis is put on quality of life in hemodialysis patients. The purpose of this study was to review the literature regarding the quality of life in hemodialysis patients. The method οf this study included bibliography research from both the review and the research literature which referred to the quality of life in haemodialysis patients. Results: According to the literature, the main factors affecting the quality of life of patients in hemodialysis patients are the problems of disease severity, various socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender), depression, failure to comply with treatment orders, the support provided by the family and social environment, sleep disturbances and insufficient information. Furthermore, the nature and chronicity of the disease including the dependence of the dialysis machine and healthcare professionals impose significant restrictions on the daily lives of hemodialysis patients. Conclusions: Assessment of quality of life in hemodialysis patients should be an integral part of the treatment and should be systematically assessed in routine clinical practice and at all stages of the disease.