Dr. Rohit Badge | Kidney Healthcare Clinic | Nephrologist In Nagpur

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Dialysis

Dialysis

What is Dialysis ?

Dialysis is a medical treatment that performs the function of the kidneys when they fail to work effectively. The kidneys filter waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. When they are damaged due to chronic kidney disease or acute injury, dialysis helps remove these wastes and maintain a balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body. It is a life-saving treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or severe kidney dysfunction.Dialysis is a crucial treatment option for patients with kidney failure, allowing them to live healthier and longer lives. It is essential to consult an experienced nephrologist to determine the most suitable type of dialysis based on medical condition, lifestyle, and overall health goals.

Symptoms Indicating Need for Dialysis

Patients may require dialysis if they experience:

  • Severe fatigue and weakness

  • Swelling in legs, feet, or ankles (edema)

  • Shortness of breath

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Confusion or reduced alertness

  • Persistent itching

  • Reduced urine output

  • High levels of potassium, creatinine, and urea in blood tests

These symptoms occur due to the build-up of waste products and excess fluids in the body.

Dialysis Procedure or Treatment

There are two main types of dialysis:

1. Hemodialysis

  • Procedure: Blood is removed from the body through a vascular access site (usually created in the arm), passed through a dialyzer (artificial kidney) to filter waste and excess fluid, and returned to the body.

  • Frequency: Usually done 3 times a week, each session lasting 3-5 hours, at a dialysis centre or hospital.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis

  • Procedure: The lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) acts as a natural filter. A cleansing fluid (dialysate) is infused into the abdominal cavity through a catheter. The fluid absorbs waste and is then drained out after a few hours.

  • Types:

    • Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) – done manually 3-4 times a day.

    • Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD) – performed using a machine at night while sleeping.

Prevention

Dialysis itself is a treatment and cannot prevent kidney failure, but to delay the need for dialysis, it is important to:

  • Control blood pressure and diabetes effectively

  • Maintain a healthy diet low in salt and processed foods

  • Stay hydrated adequately

  • Avoid overuse of painkillers (NSAIDs) without doctor advice

  • Monitor kidney function regularly if at risk

Benefits of Dialysis

  • Removes waste products and toxins from blood

  • Controls blood pressure

  • Maintains proper fluid and electrolyte balance

  • Reduces symptoms like breathlessness, swelling, and fatigue

  • Enhances quality of life and prolongs survival in kidney failure patients

  • Enables patients to continue daily activities with guidance from nephrologists

Types of Dialysis

  1. Hemodialysis (In-centre or home-based)

  2. Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD & APD)

  3. Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) – used in ICU settings for critically ill patients with acute kidney injury.

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