Contents
In this article we will look at:
- What is dialysis?
- How is dialysis performed?
- Am I eligible for dialysis?
- What risks will I face while undergoing the dialysis procedure?
- What are the pre-procedure guidelines I should follow for dialysis?
- What is the long-term outlook for someone who needs dialysis?
- What is the recovery period after undergoing dialysis procedure?
- What are the alternatives to dialysis?
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What is dialysis?
The kidneys play a vital role in removing excess fluid and waste from the body. In cases where the kidneys stop functioning, dialysis may be needed to improve their functioning. This is a type of treatment that purifies the patient’s blood and filters waste from his body. It also helps balance the fluids and electrolytes in the body. This type of therapy is also known as renal replacement therapy.
There are three types of dialysis:
- Hemodialysis
- Peritoneal dialysis
- Continuous renal replacement therapies
How is dialysis performed?
Hemodialysis
One hemodialysis session can last for up to 4 hours. Most patients need 3 sessions of hemodialysis a week. This can be done at home or in a hospital. Two thin needles are inserted into the AV fistula and taped in place. Blood flows out through one needle and is transferred to a dialysis machine. The blood is then filtered through a series of membranes and passed back into the body through the other needle. Dialysis is not painful but some people may feel dizzy or sick or complain of muscle cramps during the treatment.
Peritoneal dialysis - Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
A bag filled with dialysate fluid is attached to the catheter in the patient’s abdomen. The fluid flows into the peritoneal cavity and is allowed to stay there for a few hours. This fluid draws excess fluids and waste products from the blood. The fluid is then drained into the waste bag and fresh fluid is filled into the peritoneal cavity. This is left in place until the next session. This procedure usually takes 30-40 minutes and is quite painless. It may need to be repeated 4 times a day.
Peritoneal dialysis - Automated peritoneal dialysis
This is similar to peritoneal dialysis except that a machine controls the exchange of fluids while the patient sleeps. The patient is usually attached to the machine for 8-10 hours. Thus, all the required fluid exchanges happen while the patient is asleep. This treatment can be paused temporarily if the patient needs to go to the toilet.
Am I eligible for dialysis?
You are eligible for dialysis if you suffer from a chronic kidney disease. Some symptoms of chronic kidney disease include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Reduced urination
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
What risks will I face while undergoing the dialysis procedure?
The risks of dialysis include:
- Cramps and stomach pain
- Hypotension
- Vomiting and Nausea
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Back pain
- Itchiness
- Fever
- Difficulty sleeping
- Anaemia
- Weight gain
What are the pre-procedure guidelines I should follow for dialysis?
Before dialysis, a small surgery is usually needed to implant a tube into the patient’s body. This is a short procedure and hospitalization is not usually required. For the dialysis, patients are advised to wear loose clothing and may need to fast for a certain period of time before the treatment.
What is the long-term outlook for someone who needs dialysis?
Not all patients require dialysis permanently. If the patient’s kidneys begin to work on their own, dialysis may be stopped after a period of time. However, this is quite rare especially in the case of chronic kidney disease. In such cases, dialysis is needed permanently until a donor becomes available for a kidney transplant.
While the patient is on dialysis, intake of potassium, sodium and phosphorus should be limited. Fluid intake should also be limited. Working with a dietician can help create a suitable diet plan.
What is the recovery period after undergoing dialysis procedure?
In some cases, patients undergoing dialysis may regain kidney functioning after an extended period of time.
What are the alternatives to dialysis?
Dialysis is expensive and time consuming. Thus, it may not always be a viable option especially for patients suffering from severe kidney failure.
- Alternative treatment options available include:
- Anaemia management
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Kidney transplant
- To be a candidate for a kidney transplant the patient must not:
- Be a smoker
- Be an alcoholic
- Be obese
- Have a mental health condition
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