Dialysis is a medical procedure used to support individuals whose kidneys are unable to effectively filter waste products and excess fluids from the body. It is usually prescribed to patients with kidney failure. For patients with end-stage kidney disease, dialysis is a life-saving treatment. Kidney dialysis can extend a person’s life for up to 20 years. For most people, dialysis is temporary before getting a new kidney.
Below is a guide that explains what exactly dialysis is and where you can go in Sherman, Texas, for in-house dialysis.
What is Dialysis?
Dialysis is a treatment for individuals with severe kidney dysfunction, whether it’s because of kidney failure, diabetes, lupus, or high blood pressure, which impairs kidney function. The machine assumes the function of the kidneys, which is to clear the waste and excess fluids from the blood, which is critical to returning nutrient-rich blood to the bloodstream and maintaining the balance of fluids and electrolyte levels in the body.
Different Types of Dialysis
There are two types of dialysis systems:
Hemodialysis (HD)
Hemodialysis involves the use of a machine called a dialyzer, also called an artificial kidney. The blood is removed from the body, filtered through the dialyzer, and returned to the body. Hemodialysis may be done at a facility or at home. It usually takes anywhere from three to five hours to complete.
Patients may experience symptoms such as nausea, headaches, or dizziness after a dialysis session due to low blood pressure. Some may even experience vomiting. Follow your doctor’s instructions to help manage these symptoms.
Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)
Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen, called the peritoneum, as a natural filter. A sterile dialysis solution, known as dialysate, is introduced into the peritoneal cavity through a catheter that is placed in the belly. A Y-shaped tube is connected to the catheter, which is then connected to a bag of dialysate solution. The dialysate solution filters the waste products and excess fluids from the bloodstream. Afterward, used dialysate is then drained from the abdomen into a clear, empty bag. Peritoneal dialysis is said to offer more flexibility as it can be performed during the day or at night while the patient sleeps.
Undergoing dialysis treatment can significantly impact a person’s lifestyle. They need to carefully plan their life around it, as they have to adhere to a treatment schedule. However, maintaining a full and active life is still possible. Dialysis does not have to limit your life, and many people continue to live normal and active lives even while undergoing dialysis treatments.
In-House Dialysis Treatments at Sherman, TX
Carrus Rehabilitation Hospital offers in-house dialysis in our state-of-the-art inpatient rehabilitation facility in Sherman. Each of our 24 inpatient rehabilitation rooms is thoughtfully appointed and beautifully decorated for our patient’s safety, comfort, relaxation, and recovery. In addition to dialysis treatments, we also make 24/7 nursing and respiratory care, pain treatments, dietitian services, in-house pharmacy, in-house radiology, speech therapy, and rehabilitation services for our patients.
To find out more about our services, call our office today at (903) 870-2600. Our friendly staff looks forward to assisting you.
