Dialysis

The Gift of Renewed Life

Overview

What is Dialysis?

Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that perform several vital functions in your body, including filtering waste products and excess fluid from your blood. When your kidneys are no longer able to function properly due to chronic kidney disease (CKD), waste products and fluids can build up in your body, leading to serious health complications.

Dialysis is a lifesaving treatment that takes over the job of your kidneys when they can’t function on their own. There are two main types of dialysis:

  • Hemodialysis: This process removes waste and extra fluid from your blood using a machine called a dialyzer. During hemodialysis, blood is withdrawn from your body, passed through the dialyzer, and then returned to your body.
  • Peritoneal Dialysis: This type of dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter. A dialysis solution is instilled into your peritoneal cavity, draws waste products from your blood, and is then drained.

When is Dialysis Needed?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses through several stages. When CKD reaches an advanced stage and your kidneys can no longer function adequately, dialysis becomes necessary. Some signs that dialysis may be needed include:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Loss of appetite and nausea
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands
  • Shortness of breath


You need dialysis if your kidneys no longer remove enough wastes and fluid from your blood to keep you healthy. This usually happens when you have only 10 to 15 percent of your kidney function left. However, even if you don’t have above  symptoms yet, you can still have a high level of wastes in your blood that may be toxic to your body. Your doctor is the best person to tell you when you should start dialysis.

Is Dialysis Permanent?
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment, but it is not a cure for kidney failure. For many individuals, dialysis is a lifelong requirement unless they undergo a kidney transplant. However, with advancements in dialysis technology and patient care, individuals on dialysis can lead fulfilling lives with the support of a dedicated healthcare team.

Benefits of
Dialysis

Dialysis is a life-extending treatment that helps remove waste products and extra fluid from your blood, improving your overall health and well-being. Here are some key benefits of dialysis:
  • Improved energy levels and reduced fatigue
  • Better appetite and reduced nausea
  • Sharper thinking and improved concentration
  • Reduced swelling in your ankles, feet, and hands
  • Improved sleep quality
  • Helps control blood pressure
  • The Dialysis Process: An Overview

    There are two main types of dialysis : hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Both methods help remove waste products and excess fluid from your blood when your kidneys can’t function properly. Here’s a simplified overview of the general dialysis process:

    Preparation
    You will arrive at the dialysis center and register with the staff. Next, your vital signs will be checked, including your blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and weight. Blood tests may also be drawn at this time, depending on the need to monitor your health and potentially adjust your dialysis treatment accordingly. Finally, staff will clean and prepare your access site, which could be a fistula, graft, or catheter, for the blood removal process.
    Treatment
    Your blood will be circulated through a filtering system (dialyzer in hemodialysis, dialysate solution in peritoneal dialysis) to remove waste products and excess fluid.
  • Throughout the treatment, adjustments are made as needed to ensure your comfort and safety.
  • Recovery
    After treatment, you'll rest and have your vital signs checked again. You may receive dietary guidance or address any concerns with the team. Once you're feeling well enough, you'll be able to leave the center

    How Hemodialysis Works

    Understanding Hemodialysis: A Simplified Guide

    • Dialyzer: Hemodialysis uses a machine with a special filter called a dialyzer, also known as an artificial kidney, to clean your blood.
    • Access: A surgeon creates an access, or entrance, into your blood vessels to connect your blood to the dialyzer. This is typically done through minor surgery, usually in your arm.
    • Types of Access:
      • Fistula: The preferred choice for access, a fistula is created by connecting an artery to a nearby vein under your skin, creating a larger blood vessel. This type of access is preferred due to fewer problems and longer-lasting effectiveness.
      • Graft: If your blood vessels are unsuitable for a fistula, a graft may be used. This involves connecting an artery and nearby vein with a small, soft tube made of synthetic material, which is placed under your skin.
    • Preparation and Timing:
      • It’s important to be evaluated by a vascular surgeon at least six months before starting dialysis.
      • A fistula should ideally be placed early, several months before starting dialysis, to allow ample time for healing and readiness.
    • Using the Access:
      • After the fistula or graft has healed for several months, it can be used for dialysis.
      • Two needles are inserted every treatment session, connected to plastic tubes. One tube carries blood to the dialyzer for cleaning, while the other returns the cleaned blood to you.
    • Catheter Access:
      • A catheter, a soft tube inserted into a large vein in your neck or chest, is used when dialysis is needed for a short period or when other access types are not suitable.
      • Catheters can be connected directly to the dialysis tubes without the use of needles but are associated with more health complications compared to fistulas or grafts.

    hemodialysis

    How long will each hemodialysis treatment last?

    Hemodialysis treatments are usually done three times a week. Each treatment lasts about four hours, but you may need more time to ensure that enough wastes and fluid are removed. The amount of dialysis you need depends on:

    • How much your own kidneys are working
    • How much fluid weight you gain between treatments
    • How much waste you have in your blood
    • The type of artificial kidney used by your dialysis center

    Tips

    Protect your remaining kidney function.

    Research indicates that maintaining some level of kidney function can lead to better outcomes for patients undergoing dialysis. To help preserve any remaining kidney function you have, consider discussing the following strategies with your dialysis care team:

    • Blood Pressure Management: Adhere to your doctor’s instructions regarding blood pressure medications, as certain medications can help safeguard remaining kidney function.

    • Avoid Kidney-Harming Medications: Refrain from using medications known to harm the kidneys, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and specific antibiotics.

    • Consider Diuretics: Discuss with your doctor the potential benefits of taking diuretics (water pills) to assist in removing excess salt and water from your blood.

    • Manage Underlying Conditions: Ensure that conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure are well-controlled, as unmanaged conditions can further compromise kidney function.

    By actively addressing these factors, you can potentially preserve and optimize your remaining kidney function, leading to improved outcomes and quality of life.

    Schedule a Consultation

    If you or a loved one are in need of dialysis treatment to manage kidney disease, our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. 

    Living with Dialysis

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Can dialysis cure my kidney disease?

    No, dialysis is not a cure for kidney disease. While it can significantly improve your quality of life, it does not fully replace the work of healthy kidneys. Dialysis helps manage waste products and excess fluid in your blood, but it doesn’t address all the functions of healthy kidneys.

    • Dialysis helps you feel better and manage your condition.
    • It doesn’t replace all kidney functions.
    • Other health problems may arise due to kidney disease, but treatments are available to manage them.

    Talk to your doctor about how dialysis can help you and what other treatments might be necessary.

    Peritoneal Dialysis Overview

    • Method: Blood is filtered inside the body using the peritoneum (lining of the abdomen) as a natural filter, instead of a dialyzer machine.
    • Procedure: A catheter is surgically placed in the abdomen to introduce and drain dialysate, a cleansing fluid.
    • Treatment Process:
      • Dialysate is introduced into the abdomen, where it absorbs waste and extra fluid from the blood.
      • After a few hours, the used dialysate is drained out, completing the treatment.

    Types of Peritoneal Dialysis:

    1. Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD):
      • Requires manual exchanges of dialysate throughout the day, allowing for mobility and flexibility in treatment.
    2. Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD):
      • Uses a machine to automate the dialysate exchanges, typically performed at night while sleeping.

    Considerations:

    • Supplies and Equipment: The supplies and equipment needed vary depending on the type of peritoneal dialysis and your medical condition.
    • Treatment Frequency: The number of treatments per day and the duration of each exchange will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your specific needs.

    Absolutely! Many people with kidney disease can travel safely. Here are the key things to keep in mind:

    • Talk to your doctor: Discuss your travel plans with your kidney doctor (nephrologist) and dietician. They can advise you on the best way to manage your condition while away from home.
    • Planning is key: With some preparation, most doctors encourage travel, especially if your health is stable. Traveling can be a great way to improve your mood and overall well-being.

    Yes, dialysis expenses are typically covered by health insurance plans designed for kidney patients. for detail and terms and condition contact your insurance provider.

    It is important to follow the doctor’s advice regarding the number of dialysis sessions. Adequate dialysis is crucial for appetite, food intake quality, and overall health. Insufficient dialysis can result in appetite loss, weight loss, anemia, and breathing difficulties.

    Kidney Dialysis Testimonial


    Undergoing dialysis for my relative was a life-changing experience, and I’m grateful for the care and support I received throughout the process. From the very start, Dr. Pritam’s approach has been both professional and compassionate. The team’s genuine care and understanding have created a warm and comfortable environment.

    Thanks to the personalized care and support received at the hospital, my relative has been able to face the challenges of dialysis with strength. I am really thankful for Dr. Pritam’s expertise and the exceptional care provided by the entire team. I would highly recommend Dr. Pritam’s clinic to anyone in need of dialysis treatment.

    Sumit

    Mumbai

    Thane Center

    Dr Pritam Lala Khomane | Nephrologist in Thane

    Service Rd, Jupiter Hospital, Eastern Express Hwy, next to Viviana Mall, Thane, Maharashtra 400601

    9137127400

     

    Dombivli Center

    Dr Pritam Lala Khomane Nephrologist

    Kasturi Prem Building, Jupiter Hospital, Kalyan - Shilphata Rd, near Venkateswara Petrol Pump, Sonar Pada, Dombivli East, Dombivli, Maharashtra 421204

    9082381817

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    Dr Pritam Lala Khomane
    Nephrologist and Renal Transplant Physician

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