Dialysis is a life-saving treatment that is necessary for individuals who have kidney failure. It is a medical procedure that helps to remove waste and excess fluids from one’s body when their kidneys can no longer perform adequately. Here, doctors from a private hospital in South Kolkata have discussed everything you must know about dialysis treatment.
What is Dialysis Treatment?
As stated earlier, dialysis refers to a medical procedure that removes waste products and excess fluids from the body when the kidneys are not able to do so. It is a treatment that helps to mimic the function of healthy kidneys.
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is a type of dialysis that involves the use of an artificial kidney called a hemodialyzer. The hemodialyzer is connected to the patient’s bloodstream through a vascular access point, usually in the arm. Blood is drawn from the patient’s body, passed through the hemodialyzer, and returned to the patient’s bloodstream.
Who needs Dialysis?
Dialysis treatment is typically recommended for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), a condition in which the kidneys have lost most of their function. However, dialysis treatment may also be recommended for patients with Chronic Kidney Disease who have severe symptoms or complications related to their kidney disease.
Dialysis may also be necessary for individuals who have experienced kidney damage as a result of a severe infection, injury, or medication toxicity. In these cases, toxins from the blood and other waste products are removed with the help of this procedure while the kidneys recover.
How it is administered?
Dialysis treatment is usually administered in a dialysis centre or hospital. The procedure typically takes several hours and is performed several times a week based on the patient’s needs. The patient will be closely monitored by medical staff throughout the process.
Patients undergoing hemodialysis will be required to sit or lie down during the procedure, says the doctor of a private hospital in South Kolkata. They will be connected to the machine using a catheter or a fistula, which is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein. The fistula allows for easier access to the bloodstream during dialysis treatment.
What to expect during dialysis treatment?
During dialysis treatment, patients may experience some discomfort, but it is typically mild. Patients may also experience low blood pressure, muscle cramps, nausea, and swelling of lower extremities. These symptoms can usually be managed with medication.
How long do you need Dialysis Treatment?
The length of time a patient requires dialysis treatment depends on their individual condition, says doctors of a private hospital in South Kolkata. Some patients may require dialysis treatment for the rest of their lives, while others may be able to stop dialysis if their kidney function improves.