Health | VK Upadhyay
Dialysis is a medical treatment that is used to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are not able to function properly. There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
Hemodialysis: In hemodialysis, a machine is used to filter the blood outside of the body. A person undergoing hemodialysis will typically have a small surgical opening called a fistula or a graft created in the arm. The blood is then drawn from the person’s body and passed through a machine that filters out waste products and excess fluids. The cleaned blood is then returned to the body through the same opening. Hemodialysis treatments typically take about 3-4 hours and are typically done three times a week.
Peritoneal dialysis: In peritoneal dialysis, the lining of the abdomen (called the peritoneum) is used to filter the blood. A catheter is inserted into the abdomen, and a solution is introduced into the abdominal cavity through the catheter. The solution absorbs waste products and excess fluids from the blood, and the solution containing these substances is then drained out of the body. Peritoneal dialysis can be done at home and can be more flexible in terms of scheduling than hemodialysis.
Both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis can help people with kidney failure to live longer, healthier lives. However, both forms of dialysis can have side effects, and they both require a significant time commitment. It is important for people undergoing dialysis to work closely with their healthcare team to manage their treatment and to make any necessary lifestyle changes.
About the Author
