What is Dialysis?

Overview of Dialysis

Dialysis is a medical treatment that performs the functions of healthy kidneys when they are no longer able to do so. This process involves removing waste products, excess fluids, and balancing electrolytes in the blood. Dialysis is essential for individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or severe kidney dysfunction, helping them maintain a balance of water, minerals, and nutrients in their bodies.

Types of Dialysis

There are two primary types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Each type uses a different method to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood.

How Dialysis Works

• Hemodialysis: Blood is removed from the body, filtered through a dialyzer (artificial kidney), and then returned to the body. This is typically done using a vascular access in the arm.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: The peritoneum, a membrane lining the abdominal cavity, is used as a natural filter. A cleansing fluid is introduced into the abdomen, absorbing waste and excess fluids before being drained out.

Benefits and Risks of Dialysis

• Benefits:
  • Extends life expectancy for patients with kidney failure.
  • Improves quality of life by removing toxins and excess fluids.
  • Helps control blood pressure and maintain electrolyte balance.
• Risks:
  • Potential for infections at the access site.
  • Low blood pressure and muscle cramps during treatment.
  • Possible fluid overload or imbalances in electrolytes.

Types of Dialysis

Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis uses a machine to filter blood outside the body through a dialyzer. There are two main settings for hemodialysis:

• In-Center Hemodialysis:
  • Description: Performed at a dialysis center under the supervision of healthcare professionals. Patients typically visit the center three times a week for sessions lasting about four hours each.
  • Advantages: Professional monitoring, social interaction with other patients.
  • Considerations: Fixed schedule, travel to the center required.
• Home Hemodialysis:
  • Description: Allows patients to perform dialysis at home, either during the day or overnight. Requires training and support from healthcare providers.
  • Advantages: Flexible schedule, greater convenience, potential for more frequent dialysis leading to better outcomes.
  • Considerations: Requires space for equipment, a trained partner for assistance.

Peritoneal Dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis uses the peritoneal membrane in the abdomen as a filter. There are two primary methods:

• Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD):
  • Description: Patients manually perform exchanges throughout the day, usually four times. Each exchange involves filling the abdomen with dialysis fluid, allowing it to dwell, and then draining it out.
  • Advantages: No machines needed, more mobility and independence.
  • Considerations: Requires multiple daily sessions, risk of peritonitis (infection).
• Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD):
  • Description: Uses a machine (cycler) to perform exchanges automatically, typically overnight while the patient sleeps.
  • Advantages: Convenient for patients who prefer not to perform multiple daily exchanges, allows for a normal daily routine.
  • Considerations: Requires a machine, risk of mechanical problems or infection.

By understanding these different aspects of dialysis, patients and caregivers can make informed decisions about the best treatment options for managing kidney failure and maintaining a higher quality of life.

Find Out More About:

Preparing For Dialysis