Dialysis Patient Information

Dialysis is a treatment that is given to patients experiencing kidney failure. The procedure is used to help filter wastes and other materials from the blood, a function the kidneys are responsible for in healthy individuals, according to MedicineNet.

Hemodialysis

• Hemodialysis is form of dialysis that is often used to treat people experiencing permanent and/or advanced forms of kidney failure. This treatment uses a filtering device to get rid of waste products and fluids in the blood, which the kidneys are no longer able to remove.

Peritoneal Dialysis

• During peritoneal dialysis, a catheter places a dialysis solution into your abdomen. The solution absorbs waste materials that have collected in your blood. The solution stays in your system for up to 8 hours before it is drained into a collection bag outside of your body, according to the Mayo Clinic and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Frequency

• People generally need to get hemodialysis three times a week, for between three and five hours, in a medical facility, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The solution used in peritoneal dialysis needs to be changed out about four times a day, which can be done at home.

Lifestyle Changes

• When you are on dialysis, you need to limit the amount of fluids that you consume, including those in foods and beverages, according to Kidney Patient Guide. You may also need to take medications that regulate your blood pressure and/or calcium and phosphorous levels.

Risks

• Dialysis can put you at risk for developing autonomic neuropathy, cardiovascular disease, an iron deficiency, infections, low blood pressure and/or an abnormal heartbeat.