The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the ribcage. They are responsible for purifying the blood as well as removing any excess waste and fluids from the body. When they stop doing their job well, or at all, your doctor will likely recommend dialysis treatments to keep your body functioning as normally as possible. While dialysis isn’t a cure for kidney disease, it can help increase longevity and improve quality of life.
What is dialysis?
Dialysis is an artificial way to clean your blood. Hemodialysis, the most common type of dialysis, uses a hemodialyzer or artificial kidney. This machine removes impurities and waste from the blood and returns it to the patient. Before the first dialysis treatment, a vascular access (entrance) point is created. This allows the blood to flow from the body to the artificial kidney and back again. Dialysis treatment typically lasts three to five hours and required at least three times per week.
What are the risks associated with dialysis?
For some kidney conditions and disorders, dialysis can temporarily take over kidney function until your own kidneys have time to heal and begin to function well on their own again. Peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis are both life-saving treatments, especially for those suffering from chronic kidney disease. However, like all medical treatments and procedures, they can have certain side effects that include:
- Low blood pressure
- High blood potassium levels
- Itching
- Muscle cramps
- Insomnia
- Anemia
- Depression
Anyone requiring long-term dialysis may suffer additional complications like headache, vomiting, drowsiness, dehydration, infection, low sodium or fever. However, when dialysis treatments are done as recommended by a medical professional, it will protect as much normal kidney function as possible. Dialysis also helps prevent complications like kidney failure, which is caused by excess waste and toxins in the blood.
If you or a loved one is in need of high quality, experienced dialysis care in San Antonio contact South Texas Renal Care Group at 210-212-8622. Recognized by Scene San Antonio as one of the area’s best nephrology groups, our physicians are dedicated to managing your health and well being through comprehensive, individualized treatment plans.