For individuals with kidney failure, dialysis provides a life-sustaining solution by filtering waste and excess fluid from the body.
When the kidneys lose their ability to filter blood, dialysis becomes essential to survival. It replaces the functions of the kidneys through two main types:
- Hemodialysis: Blood is filtered through a machine outside the body
- Peritoneal dialysis: Fluid is infused into the abdomen to absorb waste, then drained
Indications for dialysis include:
- End-stage renal disease (ESRD)
- Severe electrolyte imbalance
- Uremic symptoms (e.g., confusion, nausea, fatigue)
While dialysis extends life, it also comes with:
- Dietary and fluid restrictions
- Time commitments (often multiple sessions per week)
- Risk of infection
In some cases, kidney transplant may be an option. Until then, dialysis remains a critical bridge to life for patients with advanced kidney disease.