How can haemodialysis assist people with kidney disease?

Haemodialysis is an important medical procedure that provides life-sustaining support for people with severe kidney disease. Here's how haemodialysis assists individuals with kidney disease:

1. Waste Product Removal: Kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products, toxins, excess fluids, and electrolytes from the bloodstream. When kidneys fail or become severely damaged, they can't perform this filtration process effectively. Haemodialysis steps in to take over this function.

2. Artificial Blood Filtration: During haemodialysis, the patient's blood is diverted outside the body through a semipermeable membrane called a dialysis membrane. This membrane acts as a filter, allowing waste products and excess fluids to pass through while retaining essential components like red blood cells and proteins.

3. Diffusion and Ultrafiltration: The exchange of substances occurs through diffusion and ultrafiltration. Diffusion involves the movement of waste products from the blood into the dialysis solution based on concentration gradients, while ultrafiltration helps in removing excess fluid by applying pressure.

4. Controlled Environment: Haemodialysis is performed using a dialysis machine that closely monitors and controls various parameters such as blood pressure, fluid removal rates, and the composition of the dialysis solution. This controlled environment ensures safe and effective treatment.

5. Vascular Access: To enable the flow of blood into and out of the dialysis machine, a vascular access is created. This can be done through a fistula, graft, or catheter, providing a stable and long-term access for regular dialysis sessions.

6. Regular Treatment Schedule: Haemodialysis is typically performed multiple times per week, depending on the patient's condition and individual needs. The frequency and duration of treatments are customized to achieve the desired level of waste product removal and fluid balance.

7. Managing Electrolyte and Acid-Base Balance: Haemodialysis also helps in maintaining the proper balance of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium, etc.) and correcting any abnormalities in the blood's acid-base balance, thus supporting overall body homeostasis.

8. Improved Quality of Life: Regular haemodialysis treatments help manage symptoms associated with kidney failure, such as fatigue, nausea, muscle cramps, and fluid retention. This can lead to an improvement in the overall quality of life and well-being for individuals with kidney disease.

While haemodialysis provides essential support, it's important to note that it doesn't cure kidney disease. It serves as a temporary or long-term therapy until a kidney transplant or alternative treatment options become available.