How Do I Get Dialysis

2015-07-26 07:21

 

Dialysis is just like kidney filters the blood. A semipermeable membrane makes wastes and fluids in blood leak out, and prevents useful substances like protein from leaking. There are two kinds of dialysis: Hemodialysis (HD) and Peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Which kind of dialysis is fit for you depends on your conditions and lifestyle, and you should consult your doctors before making the decision. For patients who are doing the job, it is wise for you to choose PD, because PD is convenient to operate and more flexible. In addition, no needle sticks are needed for PD. However, PD has its disadvantages, which can lead to weight gain and body image issues. It is very important for patients with PD to avoid infections because catheter needs to be in abdomen. HD don’t need catheter in abdomen, need a strict diet in daily life and rigid treatment plan.

Patients with dialysis can also change PD to HD, or HD to PD, which depends on their needs and schedule. HD treatment is two or three times a week, and period of every time is three-four hours. However, Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is commonly done on a nightly basis using an automated cylcler machine while patients are sleeping. PD usually takes about eight to ten hours.

Dialysis replaces only a small amount of your kidney function. Thus, patients with dialysis need to do adequate dialysis. If not, many symptoms occur. Dialysis also has its side effects like low blood pressure, muscle cramps, skin itching and confusion. If you want to know something about dialysis or have any question, be very free to leave a message or contact our online doctors.

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