Your dry weight, sometimes called target weight, is the weight you should reach at the end of a session, when the extra fluid has been removed.
How it is set
Your nephrologist sets it by looking at your blood pressure, swelling, breathing and how you feel at the end of sessions. It is not a diet goal: it is a fluid target.
Why it changes
- If you lose or gain real body weight (fat or muscle), your dry weight must be adjusted
- Holidays, with more meals out, can change your weight in a few weeks
- Illness can lower your appetite and your real weight
On holiday
The centre abroad uses the dry weight from your dialysis report. Tell the nurses if you feel cramps, dizziness or breathlessness: they can adjust it with your home team.
Learn more
Related: living with a fluid limit.
Planning a trip on dialysis?
Tell us your dates: we book your sessions near your hotel and reply within 12 hours.
Useful resources
This article is general information and does not replace the advice of your nephrologist or renal team.