Possible causes of symptoms in 3 mins

Consult now

iCliniq - Health Articles - Dialysis - Dialysis | Uses| Types | Risks

Kidney and Urologic Diseases  Data Verified

     

 Listen

Dialysis - Uses, Types, and Risks

Written by DR. ANUTHANYAA. R and medically reviewed by Dr. Ankush Jairath

Published on Jul 30, 2021 and last reviewed on Jan 24, 2023 - 5 min read

Abstract
Dialysis is performed to remove harmful waste products and excess fluid from
the blood when the kidney is not functioning properly. Please read the article to
know more about this procedure.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our
Contents
website. iCliniq privacy policy Ok

What Is Dialysis?

Why Is Dialysis Used?

What Are the Types of Dialysis?

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 1 of 17
:
 What Are the Risks Associated With Dialysis?

What Is Dialysis?
The kidneys filter blood to remove the waste and excess fluid from the body. The
waste products are sent to the bladder to eliminate during urination.

Dialysis is a procedure performed by a machine that functions the same as kidneys

when they have failed. It filters and purifies the blood using a machine, and so it
helps to keep the fluids and electrolytes in balance when the kidneys cannot do their
job. It has been used since 1940 to treat people with kidney failure. End-stage
kidney failure occurs when the kidneys perform only 10 to 15 percent of their normal
function.

Why Is Dialysis Used?

Dialysis is a procedure in which a machine performs and regulates the function that
kidneys do and keeps the body running normally. Without dialysis, the organs will be
damaged as the salts and other waste products start to accumulate in the blood and
poison the body. But dialysis is not the only cure for kidney disease or injury; it needs
different treatments in addition to address those concerns. The following are the
uses of dialysis, that is, performing the functions of kidneys. They are:

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 2 of 17
:
 1. Prevent excess water, waste, and other impurities from accumulating in the
body.

2. Helps to control blood pressure.

3. Regulate the levels of chemical elements like sodium and potassium in the
blood.

4. Activates a form of vitamin D, improving the absorption of calcium.

What Are the Types of Dialysis?

There are three types of dialysis; they are:

1. Hemodialysis.

2. Peritoneal dialysis.

3. Continuous renal replacement therapy.

1. Hemodialysis:

Hemodialysis is the most common type, and it uses an artificial kidney known as a
hemodialyzer to remove the excess waste and extra fluid from the blood.
Hemodialysis treatments last for three to five hours and are performed three times a
week. Most hemodialysis treatments are performed in the hospital environment,
doctor's office, or dialysis center. The treatment length depends on:

Body size.

Related Topics

Why do my creatinine and BUN levels

remain fluctuating on dialysis?

What are the ways to maintain blood

pressure during dialysis?

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 3 of 17
:
 My mother is suffering from chronic
kidney disease. Can she avoid dialysis?

The amount of waste present in the body.

The current state of health.

Procedure - The blood removed from the body is filtered through the hemodialyzer,
and the filtered blood is then returned to the body with the help of the dialysis
machine. In order to get the blood flow to the artificial kidney, the doctor performs
minor surgery to create an entry point (vascular access) into the blood vessels. The
three types of entry points are:

Arteriovenous (AV) Fistula: It connects an artery and a vein. It is designed for

long-term dialysis treatment and is the preferred option. People who receive this
entry point are ready for hemodialysis after two to three months.

AV Graft: This type is also designed for long-term dialysis treatment, and it is a
looped tube. People after AV grafts are ready for hemodialysis after two to three
weeks.

Vascular Access Catheter: It is inserted into the neck's large vein and is
designed for short-term or temporary use.

After being on hemodialysis for an extended period, the doctor will feel that you are
ready to give yourself dialysis treatments at home. This is more common in people
who need long-term treatment.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis:

A peritoneal dialysis catheter is inserted inside the abdomen, and the catheter filters
the blood through the peritoneum. During treatment, dialysate, which is a special
fluid, flows into the peritoneum. Dialysate absorbs waste out of the bloodstream, and
it is drained from the abdomen. This procedure takes place for a few hours and is
repeated four to six times a day. However, the fluid exchange can be performed
when sleeping or awake. The different types of peritoneal dialysis are:

Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) - In continuous ambulatory

peritoneal dialysis, the abdomen is filled and drained multiple times a day. This

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 4 of 17
:
 method is done when the patient is awake and does not require a machine.

Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis (CCPD) - Continuous cycling peritoneal

dialysis cycles the fluid in and out of the abdomen and is usually done while
sleeping.

Intermittent Peritoneal Dialysis (IPD) - Intermittent peritoneal dialysis is usually

performed in the hospital and also performed at home. It uses the same
machine as continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis, but the process takes a
longer time.

3. Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT):

Continuous renal replacement therapy is also known as hemofiltration and is used in

acute kidney failure patients in intensive care units (ICU).

Procedure - The dialysis machine passes the blood through the tubing, and the filter
removes waste products and water. The blood then returns to the body with the
replacement fluid. This procedure is performed 24 hours a day.

What Are the Risks Associated With Dialysis?

All three forms of dialysis save our life, but they also carry some risks.

Risks Associated With Hemodialysis:

The risks associated with hemodialysis are,

Low blood pressure.

Anemia.

Difficulty sleeping.

Itching.

High blood potassium levels.

Muscle cramping.

Pericarditis.

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 5 of 17
:
 Irregular heartbeat.

Sepsis.

Bloodstream infection.

Sudden cardiac death - It is the leading cause of death for people undergoing
dialysis.

Risks Associated With Peritoneal Dialysis:

The risks associated with peritoneal dialysis are,

Increased risk of infections in or around the catheter site in the abdominal

cavity; that is, after the catheter is implanted, a person may experience
peritonitis (infection or inflammation of the membrane lining the abdominal wall).

High blood sugar.

Stomach pain.

Weight gain.

Abdominal muscle weakening.

Hernia.

Fever.

Risks Associated With CRRT:

The risks associated with continuous renal replacement therapy are,

Infection.

Delayed renal recovery.

Hypothermia.

Low blood pressure.

Bleeding.

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 6 of 17
:
 Weakening of bones.

Electrolyte disturbances.

Anaphylaxis.

Conclusion:

When people find it difficult to cope with dialysis treatment and its side effects, they
consider stopping the treatment. In that case, the doctor checks your weight and
blood pressure as it helps to determine whether the dialysis is adequate. Before
stopping treatment, ask your concerns to know if there are any risks associated with
stopping the treatment at any time. If the patient cannot cope up, then he or she is
advised to visit a mental health professional before ending the life-saving treatment.
When the underlying condition causing the kidney failure is not corrected, stopping
the dialysis treatment will eventually lead to death.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

What Is the Time Taken for Dialysis?

The time taken for a dialysis procedure is around four hours and done thrice
weekly in dialysis centers, whereas in the case of home dialysis, it is done
four days a week.

2.

What Is the Life Expectancy Without Dialysis?

The life expectancy of people who do not do dialysis even after end-stage
kidney failure ranges from days to weeks, which depends on the overall
medical condition of the patient, amount of kidney function, and the severity
of kidney disorder.

3.

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 7 of 17
:
 When Is Dialysis Needed?

Dialysis is needed in persons with end-stage kidney failure in whom the

glomerular filtration rate drops to less than 15 ml/min/1.73 m², whereas the
normal glomerular filtration rate is above 60 ml/min/1.73 m².

4.

How Can Creatinine Levels Be Lowered Without Dialysis?

Creatine can be naturally reduced by:

- Reducing protein intake.
- Avoiding creatine supplements.
- Decreased salt intake.
- Avoiding NSAIDs.
- Intake of fiber-rich food.
- Reducing alcohol consumption.
- Avoiding smoking.

5.

What Is Meant by Dialysis Tubing?

Dialysis tubing is the tubing made of cellulose, a semipermeable membrane

used for separating small molecular weight substances from solution, in
dialysis. It is also known as Visking tubing, which removes the unwanted
toxins from the bloodstream.

6.

How Does a Fistula for Dialysis Look?

An arterioventricular fistula is a permanent artificial connection between the

artery and vein, which is created surgically on the non-dominant arm of the
person. It is made under the skin and is the most preferred access route for
hemodialysis because it lasts longer and has very few complications. For a

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 8 of 17
:
 fistula to be ready for dialysis, it usually takes a few weeks to months, after
which it is ready for dialysis treatment.

7.

In What Type of Dialysis Can Patients Be Ambulatory?

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis can be done during the waking

hours, even during movement, as it does not require any machine. It is
usually done three to five times daily.

8.

How Can We Prevent Dialysis?

Limiting the occurrence of kidney failure or slowing down the progression of

already present kidney failure helps in preventing dialysis. The following are
the measures to be taken to prevent kidney disorders:
Avoiding smoking and alcohol.
- Maintaining ideal weight.
- Reduced salt intake.
- Healthy diet.
- Regular exercise.
- Adequate water intake.

9.

How Are Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis Different?

Hemodialysis requires dialysis machines to filter the blood, whereas in the

case of peritoneal dialysis, the belly lining is used as a natural filter, and the
dialysis machine is not required.

10.

Is Dialysis Short-Term or Permanent?

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 9 of 17
:
 In cases of acute kidney failure, dialysis is temporary until the body responds
to the treatment and the kidney function reverts to normal. On the other
hand, chronic kidney disease, which usually progresses to end-stage kidney
failure, requires permanent dialysis.

11.

Can Dialysis Patients Urinate?

Dialysis does not prevent urination but only reduces the amount of urine
output. The dialysis patients urinate at least once daily, except those whose
glomerular filtration rate has dropped to zero and their kidneys are totally
damaged.

12.

Why Is Dialysis Associated With Loss of Weight?

The prime reason for weight loss in dialysis patients is due to the reduced
caloric intake, which should be maintained by consuming adequate calories
needed to maintain your body mass and following the recommended diet
plan.

13.

What Is the Recommended Diet for Dialysis Patients?

- Intake of adequate calories.

- Protein-rich diet, which includes poultry, meat, egg white, dairy products,
etc.
- Consume a low-phosphorus diet. Avoid milk, yogurt, cheese, chicken feet
soup, pork bone soup, beans, nuts, canned foods, processed foods,
chocolates, colas, etc.
- Potassium should be controlled in hemodialysis patients. Avoid foods rich
in potassium like fruits, vegetables, cereals, coconut, brown sugar,

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 10 of 17
:
 chocolate, peanut butter, etc.
- Reduce salt intake.
- Do not drink excess fluids.
- Adequate intake of vitamin B12, C, iron, and folic acid help in preventing
anemia.

14.

What Is the Function of Dialysis?

When there is kidney failure, dialysis helps remove the salt, waste, and
excess water from the body, thereby helping in maintaining the balance of
certain chemicals like sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate. In addition, it
also helps in managing the level of blood pressure.

15.

Can Dialysis Patients Drink Water?

Dialysis patients need to reduce their fluid intake to 32 ounces per day or
500 to 1000 ml per day. Thirst can be managed by taking sugar-free
candies, frozen grapes, and ice chips.

16.

What Foods Are to Be Avoided in Dialysis Patients?

- Salt consumption should be reduced.

- Foods rich in phosphorus like milk, yogurt, cheese, chicken feet soup, pork
bone soup, organ meats, malt drinks, beans, nuts, canned foods, processed
foods, chocolates, colas, etc., should be avoided.
- Avoid foods rich in potassium like fruits, vegetables, cereals, coconut,
bottled sauces, brown sugar, chocolate, peanut butter, canned fruits and
vegetable juices, etc.

17.

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 11 of 17
:
 Is Kidney Recovery Possible With Dialysis?

More than half of dialysis patients recover from kidney failure within 90 days,
10 to 15% of patients recover rapidly within 30 days, and very few patients
take about 180 days to recover.

18.

What Are the Ill Effects of Dialysis?

Low blood pressure or hypotension is the most common side effect, which
occurs after dialysis, which can be managed by consuming adequate fluids
as recommended.

19.

Is Lifespan Reduced With Dialysis?

Depending on the treatment and underlying medical condition, the rate of

survival ranges between 5 to 10 years. 20 to 30 years of survival rates are
also seen in some individuals.

Article Resources

Last reviewed at:

24 Jan 2023 - 5 min read

     

Give your rating here

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 12 of 17
:
 Dr. Ankush Jairath
Urology

Consult This Doctor

Tags:
Dialysis

Comprehensive Medical Second Opinion. Submit Your Case

iCliniq's FREE Newsletters

Expert-backed health and wellness information, delivered to your email.

Enter your email address Subscribe

I'm not a robot

reCAPTCHA
Privacy - Terms

By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the iCliniq Terms & Conditions and

Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of iCliniq subscriptions at
any time.

Related Questions & Answers

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 13 of 17
:
 How much BP is good enough to start dialysis?

Query: Hi doctor, My father is a heart patient with amyloidosis and edema. He

is in coma after cardiac arrest for seven days now. He was diagnosed with
hypertension 26 years ago. His current medications are Lasix, Midodrine,
Amiodarone and Eliquis. Patient also has AFib. Patient has BP readings of
121/71 m... Read Full »

Why is there accumulation of water in spite of stomach dialysis?

Query: Hello doctor,My sister has been undergoing stomach dialysis

treatment for the past one month. Now, she has developed water in the lungs.
Due to that, there is breathlessness, no appetite, no sleep, and water
retention in the feet and stomach. The doctor has removed 1 liter of water
from the lungs, b... Read Full »

Can fibroid or peritoneal dialysis cause heavy menstrual

bleeding?

Query: Hello doctor, My wife, 46 years old is having constant menstrual

bleeding for the past 15 to 20 days. Mostly mild and sometimes heavy and she
is also doing peritoneal dialysis because of kidney failure. Gynecologist
suggested for ultrasound and they found small submucosal fibroid and the
doctor sa... Read Full »

Most Popular Articles

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 14 of 17
:
 What Causes Pain in the What Is Progyluton Pill? What Does Sle
Corner of the Eye? Mean?
Dr. Richa Agarwal
Dr. Gargi Madhukar
Apte

Do you have a question on ?

Ask a Doctor Online

* guaranteed answer within 4 hours.

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for

professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek
advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you
may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical
diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of
something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we
create content for health articles and queries.

Your health is our #1 priority

and it never changes

Ask a doctor online

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 15 of 17
:
 Specialties we cover

Company

Customer Care

Get iCliniq

Payments accepted

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for

professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from
your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding
your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or
disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this
website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and
queries.

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 16 of 17
:
 Terms - Privacy - Ads Policy - Sitemap
Copyright © 2023, iCliniq - All Rights Reserved

Visit other versions in US, UK, Australia, India, Philippines, and Intl. Home

version 14.055-7-prod

https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/dialysis 13/12/23, 3 23 PM
Page 17 of 17
: