Understanding Dialysis - Why and What of it

 

What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a medical treatment that performs the function of the kidneys when they are no longer able to do so effectively. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. When kidneys fail due to disease or injury, dialysis is used to remove these harmful substances and maintain balance in the body.

Types of Dialysis

There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

1. Hemodialysis

• Description: Hemodialysis involves the use of a machine and a special filter called a dialyzer to clean the blood. The blood is drawn out of the body, filtered to remove waste and excess fluid, and then returned to the body.
• Process:
  • A needle is inserted into a blood vessel (usually in the arm) to withdraw blood.
  • The blood flows through the dialyzer, where it is cleaned.
  • The purified blood is then returned to the body.
• Frequency: Typically done 3 times a week, with each session lasting 3 to 5 hours.
• Common Locations: This procedure is often done at a dialysis center, though some patients may have it done at home with specialized training.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis

• Description: Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen (the peritoneum) as a filter to remove waste and excess fluid from the blood. A catheter is surgically placed in the abdomen, and a special solution (dialysate) is introduced into the abdominal cavity.
• Process:
  • The dialysate absorbs waste and extra fluid from the blood vessels in the abdominal lining.
  • After a certain period, the dialysate is drained out, carrying waste and excess fluid with it.
• Frequency: Can be done daily, with exchanges typically taking 30 to 40 minutes each. Some patients may do it overnight using a machine (called automated peritoneal dialysis).
• Common Locations: Performed at home, though initial training is required.

Why is Dialysis Needed?

Dialysis is required for individuals whose kidneys are no longer able to perform their natural function due to conditions such as:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Long-term damage to the kidneys, often caused by conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or glomerulonephritis.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Sudden and severe loss of kidney function, which may be reversible or require long-term dialysis.
• End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): The final stage of chronic kidney disease, where kidney function is less than 10-15% of normal.

Benefits of Dialysis

• Waste Removal: Dialysis helps eliminate excess waste, fluids, and toxins from the blood.
• Electrolyte Balance: It helps maintain the balance of important electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium.
• Blood Pressure Control: By removing excess fluid, dialysis can help control high blood pressure caused by kidney dysfunction.

Challenges and Risks

• Infection: There’s a risk of infection, especially with peritoneal dialysis, due to the catheter or surgical site.
• Blood Clots: Hemodialysis can sometimes cause blood clots to form in the dialysis machine or access point.
• Cardiovascular Issues: Dialysis can put a strain on the heart and circulatory system, leading to complications.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Dialysis requires significant time commitment and lifestyle changes for patients.

Alternatives to Dialysis

For some patients, a kidney transplant may be a better option, especially if dialysis is no longer effective or if there are complications. A kidney transplant involves surgically placing a healthy kidney from a donor into the patient’s body to restore normal kidney function.

Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for individuals with kidney failure, helping to perform essential functions that the kidneys can no longer carry out. It provides an alternative for those waiting for a kidney transplant or those unable to undergo such surgery. However, it comes with challenges, including the need for regular sessions and the potential for complications.

Palium Healthcare is an initiative of Palium Foundation and is established with the objective of helping children, adolescents, adults and elderly to deal with health challenges. Our professionals strive to provide excellent treatment at affordable cost.