Chronic Kidney Failure or alternatively Chronic Kidney Disease is a condition in which the kidneys are unable to adequately filter the blood and expel harmful substances and unnecessary fluids from meals we have consumed during the day.
Hemodialysis is therefore specifically designed to perform this function. During the procedure, blood passes through an “artificial kidney,” which filters it, that is, cleans it, eliminating harmful and unnecessary substances and then returning the purified blood back to the body.
How is dialysis performed?
At the beginning of hemodialysis, an arteriovenous communication (fistula) between artery and vein is created by the vascular surgeon in order to allow blood flow to and from the machine. In case the patient's veins are not suitable for the creation of arteriovenous communication, either a plastic graft between the artery and the larger vein or a dialysis catheter in a large vein of the body is placed alternatively.
Once the above vascular accesses are created, biocompatible synthetic tubes (dialysis lines) are connected to them, which will transport the blood between the body and the dialysis machine. Usually two tubes are used: one for transferring blood from the body to the machine (arterial line) and another for returning purified blood back to the body (venous line).
During dialysis, blood flows from the body to the dialysis machine through one of these two tubes. Inside the machine, blood passes through a special filter, which removes harmful substances and unnecessary liquids. After it is cleaned, the blood returns to the body through the other tube that connects to your access point. This process is repeated several times during a session.
In fact, in case a patient faces health problems, basic preparations are administered, such as vitamins, erythropoietic agents (which stimulate the production of red blood cells) and other pharmaceutical substances that are necessary for their health. The direct connection of the dialysis machine to the patient's bloodstream facilitates the effective administration of these preparations, contributing to his overall care and management of his condition.
The dialysis procedure is usually performed in dialysis units, most often 3 times a week and takes about 4 hours.
How does dialysis benefit me?
Hemodialysis is a life-saving treatment that allows patients to continue living while waiting for a kidney transplant or as a long-term treatment option.
Hemodialysis benefits you in several important ways:
1. Removes harmful substances: Hemodialysis helps remove waste products, excess fluids and toxins that your kidneys would normally filter out from your blood. Without dialysis, these substances can accumulate in your body and cause serious health complications.
2. Creates fluid and electrolyte balance: Hemodialysis helps to compensate for decreased kidney function by removing excess fluid and electrolytes from the blood and maintaining a proper balance of these, which is essential for overall health and vital functions of the body.
3. Regulates blood pressure: Hemodialysis may help regulate blood pressure, which is important for reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with renal failure.
4. Contributes to symptom management: Hemodialysis can help relieve symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, nausea and dyspnea that may occur due to renal failure.
5. Improves quality of life: By effectively removing waste and excess fluid from your body, dialysis can improve your overall quality of life and help you feel better and more active.
Does hemodialysis have complications?
Most patients state that dialysis treatment is painless and generally well tolerated. However, some of them show some symptoms including low blood pressure, muscle cramps, itching, sleep problems, anemia, bone diseases, excessive fluid accumulation, swelling of the membrane around the heart. Over time, the body gets used to the dialysis process and these symptoms subside. Our team can provide you with support and guidance to manage these issues and improve your quality of life.
How will my daily life change after starting dialysis?
After starting dialysis, many patients experience some changes in their routine and lifestyle. Although adjustments may become necessary, such as the integration of dialysis sessions into your daily routine, dietary changes and proper care of your body area, which is the access point, dialysis is designed to help you manage kidney failure and improve your overall health. Despite these changes, many patients find that they can continue to live a satisfying life with the support of their medical team and loved ones. If your overall health would allow that, you can:
- Continue your studies or work
- Drive
- Exercise
- Swim
- Travel
Our clinic is here to provide you with the guidance and support to best respond to these changes and maintain a good quality of life while undergoing dialysis. If you have any specific concerns or questions about how dialysis may affect your life, please feel free to contact us for help and support.
