Dialysis
Dialysis is a vital treatment for kidney disease that helps perform some of the functions normally done by healthy kidneys. It becomes necessary when your kidneys can no longer effectively remove waste and toxins from your blood. Click LEARN MORE in the boxes below for additional information.
Hemodialysis
In hemodialysis, an artificial kidney, known as a hemodialyzer, is used to filter waste, excess chemicals, and fluids from your blood. To connect your blood to the artificial kidney, a doctor will create an access point into your blood vessels through minor surgery on your arm or leg.
- Fistula: A common method involves joining an artery to a vein under your skin, creating a larger blood vessel called a fistula.
- Graft: If your blood vessels are not suitable for a fistula, a soft plastic tube may be used to connect an artery and vein, forming a graft.
- Catheter: In some cases, a narrow plastic tube, or catheter, is inserted into a large vein in your neck. This can be a temporary solution or used for long-term treatment.
Once your blood is accessed, it is pumped through the hemodialyzer, cleaned, and then returned to your blood vessels.
Hemodialysis: At home or in-center?
Hemodialysis at a Dialysis Center
- Professional Supervision: A nurse or technician manages the treatment.
- Frequency and Duration: Typically performed three times a week, with each session lasting about three to four hours or more.
- Scheduled Appointments: Treatments are conducted on pre-scheduled days and times at a designated dialysis center.
At-Home Hemodialysis
- Self-Managed: You and a loved one or caregiver perform the treatment at home.
- Training Provided: Before starting home dialysis, you will receive training at a hospital or dialysis center.
- Support Available: You will have access to support resources for any issues that arise.
- Enhanced Outcomes: Research indicates that the more knowledgeable and involved you are in your treatment, the better your overall experience with dialysis.
- More information on Hemodialysis at Home, the Hemodialysis at Home page
Peritoneal Dialysis
In peritoneal dialysis, blood is cleaned while it remains inside your body. A doctor will perform surgery to insert a plastic tube, known as a catheter, into your abdomen to create an access point. During treatment, a solution called dialysate is gradually introduced into the peritoneal cavity, the space inside your abdomen. Blood remains in the arteries and veins lining this cavity, allowing excess fluid and waste products to transfer into the dialysate, which is then removed.
Peritoneal Dialysis: CAPD or CCPD?
Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD)
- No Machines Required: CAPD is the only type of peritoneal dialysis performed without the use of machines.
- Self-Managed: You perform the dialysis yourself, typically four to five times a day.
- Dialysate Exchange: Using the catheter, you infuse a new bag of dialysate (about 2 quarts) into your peritoneal cavity.
- Flexible Schedule: The dialysate remains in your abdomen for four to five hours while you carry out your daily activities, such as work, school, or home chores.
- Drain and Dispose: After the dwell time, you drain the used dialysate back into a bag and dispose of it.
- Exchanges: Each cycle of adding and draining dialysate is known as an “exchange.”
Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis (CCPD)
- Machine-Assisted: CCPD is performed at home with the help of a specialized machine called a cycler.
- Increased Cycles: Unlike CAPD, CCPD involves multiple cycles (exchanges) throughout the night, with each cycle lasting 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Night-Time Operation: The machine operates while you sleep, allowing you to continue with your daily activities without interruption.
Dialysis FAQ
What Does Dialysis Do?
Is Kidney Failure Permanent?
Not always. Acute kidney failure can improve with treatment, and sometimes dialysis is only needed temporarily until kidney function recovers. However, in cases of chronic or end-stage kidney failure, the kidneys do not regain function, and you will require ongoing dialysis. Consult your doctor about the possibility of being placed on a waiting list for a kidney transplant.
Where Is Dialysis Done?
Dialysis can be performed in several settings:
- Hospital: Inpatient dialysis takes place in a hospital setting.
- Standalone Dialysis Unit: Some facilities specialize in dialysis but are not part of a hospital.
- Home: Dialysis can also be done at home with the appropriate equipment and training.
You and your doctor will determine the best option based on your medical needs and personal preferences.
Will Dialysis Cure My Kidney Disease?
No, dialysis does not cure kidney disease. While it performs some of the functions of healthy kidneys, it only manages symptoms and maintains balance in the body. You will need to continue dialysis for life unless you receive a kidney transplant.
Does Dialysis Hurt?
You might experience some discomfort when the needles are inserted into your fistula or graft, but many patients find the dialysis treatment itself to be painless. Occasionally, you may experience a drop in blood pressure during treatment, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, or cramps. These issues typically diminish with frequent treatments.
How Long Has Dialysis Been Available?
Dialysis treatments have been available since the mid-1940s, with hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis being the primary methods used. By 1960, dialysis had become a standard treatment for kidney failure worldwide. Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) was introduced in 1976. These treatments have since helped thousands of individuals with kidney disease.
Is Dialysis Expensive?
Yes, dialysis can be quite costly. However, the federal government covers 80 percent of dialysis expenses for most patients. Additionally, private health insurance and state medical aid can help offset the remaining costs.
Do Dialysis Patients Have to Eat Special Diets?
Yes, dialysis patients often need to follow specific dietary guidelines. You might need to limit certain foods and beverages and monitor your fluid intake. Dietary restrictions can vary depending on the type of dialysis you are undergoing.
Can Dialysis Patients Travel?
Yes, dialysis patients can travel. Dialysis centers are available across the United States and in many other countries. Since the treatment is standardized, you can receive dialysis at different locations. Before traveling, make sure to arrange appointments at a dialysis center at your destination. Your current dialysis center staff can assist with setting up these appointments.
Can Dialysis Patients Continue to Work?
Yes, many dialysis patients can continue working. How well you handle dialysis, the physical demands of your job, and how you feel during treatment all play a role in determining your ability to work. It’s important to assess your personal situation and choose what works best for you.
For dialysis questions or support, please contact the Kidney Foundation of Northwest Ohio’s Patient Services department. Our team is here to provide you with the information and assistance you need to manage your dialysis treatment effectively.
Email: info@kfnwo.org | Phone: (419) 329-2196