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in Ahmedabad

What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a medical procedure that serves as an artificial replacement for lost kidney function in individuals with renal failure. There are two main types: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves circulating blood through an external filter to remove waste products and excess fluids, then returning the cleansed blood to the body. This is typically performed in a clinic or hospital setting. Peritoneal dialysis, on the other hand, uses the patient's peritoneum in the abdomen as a membrane across which fluids and dissolved substances are exchanged from the blood. This method can often be done at home. Dialysis is essential for patients with end-stage kidney disease or severe chronic kidney disease to manage symptoms and sustain life. Despite its benefits, dialysis is a time-consuming process and can be physically taxing, often requiring lifestyle adjustments and careful management of diet and fluids.

In what situations would a patient require dialysis therapy?

Dialysis therapy is required when kidneys cannot sufficiently filter waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood. Situations necessitating dialysis include:

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): When chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses to stage 5, with kidney function below 15%, dialysis is needed to perform the kidneys' filtration duties.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Sudden, severe kidney failure from trauma, infection, or toxins may require temporary dialysis while kidneys recover.
Severe Electrolyte Imbalances: Critical levels of potassium, sodium, or acids in the blood that cannot be corrected with medications alone.
Fluid Overload: Excess fluid accumulation leading to complications like pulmonary edema or heart failure that cannot be managed through other means.
Uremia: Accumulation of waste products in the blood causing severe symptoms such as nausea, confusion, or pericarditis.

What are the functions and processes of the kidneys?

The kidneys filter blood to remove waste products and excess fluids, regulate electrolyte balance, maintain acid-base balance, and produce hormones that control blood pressure, red blood cell production, and bone health. These processes are essential for homeostasis and overall bodily function.

Types of Dialysis

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

Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis involves circulating the patient's blood outside the body through a machine that filters out waste products and excess fluids before returning the cleansed blood to the body. It requires vascular access, typically through an arteriovenous fistula or graft, allowing blood to flow continuously during treatment. Hemodialysis is usually performed in a clinic or hospital setting, typically three times a week.

Peritoneal dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis uses the patient's peritoneum, a membrane lining the abdomen, as a natural filter. Dialysis fluid is introduced into the peritoneal cavity through a catheter, where it absorbs waste products and excess fluids from the blood. After a dwell time, the fluid, now containing waste, is drained out. Peritoneal dialysis can be done at home, offering more flexibility in treatment schedules and lifestyle.

Both types of dialysis serve to manage kidney failure by maintaining fluid balance, electrolyte levels, and removing toxins from the body.

Dialysis Procedure

During hemodialysis, blood is removed from the patient's body through a catheter or vascular access, filtered through a dialyzer to remove waste and excess fluids, and then returned to the body. Peritoneal dialysis involves filling the abdomen with dialysis fluid via a catheter, allowing waste products and excess fluids to pass into the fluid, which is later drained out.

NephroPlus Dialysis Clinic in Ahmedabad

4th Floor, Renus Hospital Tulsi Landmark, Petlad Rd, opp. MPUH Hospital, Nadiad, Gujarat 387001

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to the questions you may have.

What is dialysis?
Dialysis is a medical procedure that substitutes kidney function by removing waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so.
How often is dialysis needed?
Typically, hemodialysis is needed three times a week, while peritoneal dialysis can be performed daily at home.
What are the common side effects of dialysis?
Common side effects include low blood pressure, muscle cramps, nausea, and fatigue during or after treatment.
Can dialysis be done at home?
Yes, peritoneal dialysis can be done at home, offering flexibility and convenience for patients.
How to choose the best dialysis center in Ahmedabad?
Consider factors such as proximity, reputation, facilities, staff expertise, patient reviews, and whether they offer the type of dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal) that suits your needs best.

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