DIALYSIS - WatsonsHealth

DIALYSIS

Overview & Facts

Dialysis is the process of filtering blood by expelling waste products and excess liquids from your body. Usually the kidneys are the ones doing this function. This waste is sent to the bladder to be excreted when you urinate. In kidney failure, the kidneys are no longer are capable of performing these functions. End-stage kidney disease happens when the kidneys are performing at just 10 to 15 percent of their ordinary capacity and thus the sufferer needs dialysis.

Dialysis is a treatment that filters and clears out blood using a machine. This helps keep your liquids and electrolytes in balance when the kidneys can’t carry out their activity.

Types & Symptoms

There are three types of dialysis:

  • Hemodialysis, which is the most common form of dialysis and uses a hemodialyzer to perform its functions. The doctor usually performs surgery to create vascular access which may be in the form of an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, AV graft and vascular access catheter. The session usually lasts 3 to 5 hours each.
  • Peritoneal dialysis, which involves placement of a peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter into the abdomen. During the procedure, a fluid known as a dialysate is placed in the peritoneum or the covering of your abdomen. This dialysate absorbs waste and after there is waste in the bloodstream, it is drained from the abdomen. This needs to repeated four to six times a day. It is also divided into three types:
    • Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), in which the abdomen is filled and drained several times every day while awake.
    • Continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis (CCPD), in which a machine is used to cycle fluid to and from the abdomen while sleeping.
    • Intermittent peritoneal dialysis (IPD), which is performed using a machine like CCPD, only longer.
  • Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), which is usually done in the intensive care unit for those with acute kidney failure and is also known as hemofiltration. It uses a machine and is performed 12 to 24 hours every day.

Diagnosis & Medications

During dialysis, you may also be given treatment, such as the following:

  • Pain medication, except ibuprofen
  • Blood pressure medication
  • Antibiotics for infections
  • A low-sodium diet
  • Diuretics to help remove excess fluid from the body

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