Search for non-medical treatment by hemodialysis patients with chronic renal failure

Abstract

It is common knowledge that quite a few patients with medical illness look for non-medical treatments. There are, however, very few articles in the literature regarding the reasons for these searches or the kinds of non-medical treatment these patients receive. In this research, we aimed to study the frequency of searches for non-medical treatment, the reasons for those searches, and the kinds of non-medical treatment methods used by hemodialysis (HD) patients with chronic renal failure. To that end, 199 HD patients filled out a questionnaire and an information form regarding these issues. Results showed that searches for non-medical treatment were infrequent among HD patients. Among those who did conduct searches, a feeling of helplessness was the most common reason for the search. Additionally, the level of education was found to be lower in patients who ultimately received non-medical treatment (p = 0.03). We conclude that if the non-medical treatment method settled upon has no harmful effect and does not drive the patient away from conventional medical treatment, it may, in fact, be somewhat beneficial for the patient.