What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a medical treatment used in patients with impaired kidney function or kidney failure. It is a procedure in which waste products, excess fluid and other harmful substances are removed from the blood because the kidneys are no longer able to perform these tasks adequately. Dialysis helps maintain electrolyte balance and remove excess fluid to improve patient health and well-being.

There are two main forms of dialysis:

1. Hemodialysis: In hemodialysis, the blood is purified outside the patient's body. The blood is passed through a needle into a special filter called a dialysis machine or artificial kidney. In the dialysis machine, the blood is purified from waste products and excess fluid. The purified blood is then returned to the patient's bloodstream. Hemodialysis is usually performed in a dialysis center under the supervision of specialized medical professionals.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis: In peritoneal dialysis, a special fluid called a dialysate is introduced into the patient's abdominal cavity through a catheter. The peritoneum, a membrane covering the abdominal organs, acts as a natural filter. The dialysate remains in the abdominal cavity for a period of time and helps remove waste and excess fluid. The used dialysate is then removed from the abdominal cavity. Peritoneal dialysis can be performed in the comfort of the patient's home after appropriate training and under the supervision of medical personnel.

Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for patients with kidney failure and can be temporary, pending a kidney transplant, or life-long if a transplant is not possible. Dialysis can improve quality of life and reduce the symptoms of kidney failure, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention. However, it is important to note that dialysis is an intensive treatment and requires adherence to strict diet and medical guidelines.