Dialysis is a medical procedure that has helped countless individuals with kidney failure. However, despite its popularity, not many people actually understand what it entails.
Here is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about dialysis, from what it is and how different types work.
What Is Dialysis?
Dialysis is a medical treatment designed to help individuals whose kidneys aren’t working as they should be. The role of our kidneys is vital; they filter out waste products and surplus fluid from our blood.
However, when conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, lupus, injuries, or other diseases cause the kidneys to fail, dialysis steps in to perform this crucial function.
This treatment that replicates some of the functions of healthy kidneys. It removes waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys can’t do so sufficiently.
Typically, those who require dialysis are either living with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or are experiencing kidney failure.
It’s important to note that dialysis isn’t exclusively for those with permanent kidney issues. In some instances, it can serve as a temporary solution while patients wait for a kidney transplant.
Types of Dialysis
There are two main types: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
Hemodialysis
In hemodialysis, blood is pumped out of your body to an artificial kidney machine (dialyzer), where it’s cleaned and returned to your body. This procedure is typically performed three times a week and takes about three to four hours for each session.
It usually happens in a dialysis center, but home hemodialysis is also an option for some patients.
Here’s a step-by-step guide detailing the hemodialysis process:
1. Preparing for Hemodialysis
Before you can start hemodialysis, you need to have access created in your body, a place where blood can be removed and returned during dialysis. There are two main types of access: arteriovenous (AV) fistula and AV graft.
The AV fistula is the most preferred access due to its long-term benefits and lower complication rates.
2. Getting Started with Hemodialysis
On the day of your treatment, a nurse or trained technician will check your vital signs and access the site. Then, two needles will be inserted into your access point. One needle will draw blood and channel it to the dialysis machine, while the other will return the cleaned blood back into your body.
3. The Dialysis Machine
The heart of the hemodialysis process is the dialysis machine, sometimes called “artificial kidney.” Your blood is pumped through a series of tubes into the machine, where it goes through a special filter called a dialyzer.
4. Cleaning the Blood
Inside the dialyzer, your blood comes in contact with dialysate. This solution removes waste products and extra fluids from your blood but keeps essential elements like red and white blood cells and plasma proteins. The cleaned blood is then sent back into your body through the second needle in your access point.
5. Monitoring During Treatment
Throughout the treatment, the dialysis machine monitors your blood flow and adjusts as necessary. Your healthcare provider will also regularly check your blood pressure and may adjust the machine settings to ensure that the right amount of fluid is being removed.
6. After Treatment
Once the procedure is complete, the needles are removed, and a bandage is applied to the needle site to prevent bleeding. You’ll likely feel tired after treatment, so having a ride home and rest is important.
Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdominal cavity (the peritoneum) as a natural filter to clean the blood. A catheter is surgically placed in your belly, which allows a special fluid (dialysate) to flow into your abdomen.
The dialysate absorbs waste and extra fluid from your blood, and after a few hours, it’s drained out and replaced with fresh dialysate.
There are two types of peritoneal dialysis: continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), done manually four to five times a day, and automated peritoneal dialysis (APD), which uses a machine to exchange the fluid while you sleep.
Here’s a detailed explanation of the peritoneal process:
1. Preparing for Peritoneal Dialysis
Before you can start peritoneal dialysis, a surgeon needs to insert a soft tube, called a catheter, into your abdomen. This catheter serves as a permanent access point for dialysis treatment and typically takes a few weeks to heal before it can be used.
2. The Dialysis Process
Peritoneal dialysis involves filling your abdominal cavity with the dialysate through the catheter. The dialysate absorbs waste products and excess fluid from your blood.
These waste products and excess fluid move from your blood vessels in your peritoneal membrane into the dialysate due to osmosis and diffusion.
3. Dwell Time
Once your abdomen is filled with the dialysate, it’s left in place for a certain period, typically four to six hours. This period is known as “dwell time.” During this time, you can go about your typical daily activities.
4. Draining the Dialysate
After the dwell time, the now waste-filled dialysate is drained from your abdomen through the catheter into a disposable collection bag. You then discard this bag.
5. Exchange
Once the used dialysate has been drained, your abdomen is refilled with fresh dialysate, and the process begins again. The entire process of filling and draining is called an exchange.
6. Monitoring Your Health
While on peritoneal dialysis, you’ll have regular checkups with your healthcare provider. They will monitor your health, make sure the treatment is working effectively, and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.
Dialysis in Sherman, TX
Are you battling kidney disease or experiencing kidney failure? At Carrus Rehabilitation Hospital, we understand how crucial proper dialysis treatment is to your health and quality of life. That’s why our dedicated multispecialty staff is here to provide you with the nephrology care you need in a comfortable and supportive setting.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (903) 870-2600 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
