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What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a medical procedure used to perform the key functions of the kidneys when they fail. Typically, kidneys filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood, maintaining a healthy balance of electrolytes and fluids in the body. When kidney function declines significantly (as in chronic kidney disease or acute kidney injury), dialysis becomes necessary to prevent the buildup of harmful wastes and fluids in the bloodstream.

There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves using a machine to filter blood through a specialized filter, called a dialyzer, removing waste and returning clean blood to the body. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter. A special fluid (dialysate) is introduced into the abdomen, and waste products pass from the blood vessels in the peritoneum into the dialysate fluid, which is then drained out.

Both types of dialysis help maintain proper electrolyte balance and remove toxins, effectively substituting for kidney function to keep patients stable and healthy.

What are the functions and processes of the kidneys?

Dialysis therapy is required when a patient's kidneys are no longer able to adequately filter waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood, a condition known as kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD).Common situations necessitating dialysis include:

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): When CKD progresses to stage 5, the kidneys lose nearly all their filtering capacity.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Sudden, severe damage to the kidneys due to trauma, infection, or drug toxicity may require temporary dialysis.
Severe Electrolyte Imbalance: When life-threatening levels of potassium, sodium, or other electrolytes accumulate due to kidney dysfunction.
Fluid Overload: When excess fluid in the body leads to complications like pulmonary edema, which cannot be managed through medication alone
Uremia: Accumulation of waste products in the blood leading to symptoms like nausea, fatigue, and mental confusion.

What are the functions and processes of the kidneys?

The kidneys filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood to form urine, regulating water and electrolyte balance. They also maintain acid-base balance, control blood pressure by regulating salt and water levels, and release hormones like erythropoietin (which stimulates red blood cell production) and renin (which regulates blood pressure). Additionally, the kidneys activate vitamin D to maintain healthy bones and manage calcium and phosphate balance, crucial for various body functions, including muscle contraction and nerve signaling.

Types of dialysis

There are two primary types of dialysis

Hemodialysis

Involves using a machine called a dialyzer to filter blood. During hemodialysis, blood is pumped from the body into the dialyzer, where it flows through special filters that remove waste and extra fluids. The cleaned blood is then returned to the body. This process typically takes place in a dialysis center several times a week.

Peritoneal Dialysis

Uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter. A cleansing fluid (dialysate) is introduced into the abdomen through a catheter. Waste products and excess fluids pass from tiny blood vessels in the peritoneum into the dialysate. After a period of dwell time, the used dialysate is drained out of the abdomen, removing toxins. Peritoneal dialysis can be performed at home, offering more flexibility but requiring daily exchanges.

Both types of dialysis help maintain electrolyte balance, remove waste products, and manage fluid levels when the kidneys are unable to perform these functions adequately.

Dialysis procedure

During dialysis, whether hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, blood is purified by removing waste products and excess fluids. Hemodialysis uses a machine (dialyzer) to filter blood outside the body, while peritoneal dialysis uses the abdomen lining (peritoneum) as a natural filter with fluid exchanges performed manually through a catheter.

NephroPlus Dialysis & Kidney Care Centre

FORTIS ESCORTS HOSPITAL, Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, Sector 5, Malviya Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302017

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to the questions you may have.

What is dialysis?
Dialysis is a medical procedure used to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are unable to perform these functions adequately.
How often is dialysis needed?
Typically, hemodialysis is needed three times a week, while peritoneal dialysis is performed daily.
Common side effects of dialysis?
Common side effects include low blood pressure, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
Can dialysis be done at home?
Yes, peritoneal dialysis can often be done at home, offering flexibility and convenience.
Choosing the best Dialysis Center in Rajasthan?
To choose the best dialysis center in Rajasthan, consider factors like reputation, expertise of staff, availability of services (e.g., types of dialysis offered), cleanliness, patient reviews, and proximity to home or work.

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