Nephrology & Dialysis

The frequency of dialysis depends on how well the kidneys are functioning. When kidney function is normal, people typically undergo dialysis three times a week. As kidney function deteriorates, people may need dialysis treatments more often. In cases of acute kidney failure, it may be necessary to dialyze every few hours.

On average, each session takes 3 hours. But how long you have to stay at the hospital can vary depending on why you are having dialysis and if anything changes during treatment times.

Dialysis is necessary for patients who have lost up to 85% of their kidney function and who are not candidates for a kidney transplant. It can also be used as a temporary measure while a patient awaits a donor kidney or undergoes dialysis treatment prior to transplantation.

Yes. Dialysis lets you lead a fairly normal life. You can work, travel, and do most things you did before you started dialysis. But you will need to make some changes, such as eating a special diet and taking care of your blood pressure.

No, you will need to follow a special diet while on dialysis. Your dietitian will create a meal plan specifically for you that meets your nutritional needs.

No, you should not drink alcohol while on hemodialysis. Alcohol can damage your liver and kidney function.

Yes, you may feel tired after your treatments. This is normal and will go away over time. Try to plenty of rest and schedule your treatments around when you know you will have the most energy.

Yes, you can travel while on hemodialysis. Talk to your doctor about how to prepare for your trip. You may need to bring some of your own medical supplies with you.

Some people can continue working while on dialysis, but others may need to take time off from work. talk to your doctor about what is best for you.

If you have a problem during your treatments, tell your doctor right away. Do not try to solve the problem yourself.

 There are a number of complications that can occur as a result of dialysis. These can include:

• Infection – This is one of the most common complications, and can range from mild to life-threatening. It is important to take precautions to reduce your risk of infection, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding contact with sick people.
• Bleeding – Dialysis can sometimes cause blood vessels to rupture, leading to bleeding. This can be quite serious, and may require emergency treatment.
• Low blood pressure – This is a common complication of dialysis, and can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. It is important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a balanced diet to maintain stable blood pressure.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) – AKI is a sudden decrease in kidney function, which can be triggered by reduced blood flow during dialysis or another cause of reduced kidney function. 
• Anemia – lack of red cells causing paleness , weakness, dyspnea on exertion, etc.
• Loss of graft – refers to the transplanted organ no longer functioning  after transplantation.   This may be due to a number of reasons, such as rejection by the immune system or infection.
• Death – This is a rare complication, but it is possible for people on dialysis to die from various causes, such as infections or heart problems.

In most people who have been on dialysis for at least several weeks or months, there will be pain associated with each treatment. Some people also experience discomfort when the fistula/graft becomes inflamed during dialysis due to irritation from the needles used to remove and add blood. This inflammation, called phlebitis, is a common complication of hemodialysis.

Dialysis can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, cramps, headache, muscle weakness, and restless legs syndrome. These side effects are usually mild and can be controlled with medications. Some people also experience mood changes or depression on dialysis.

Speak with your doctor about getting started on dialysis. Some people are referred to a nephrologist (kidney doctor). Other people decide to learn more about their options themselves or work with counselors to find out which option is best for them.

Dialyzors are machines that clean your blood outside of your body. A tube called a catheter is put into your chest, neck, or groin. This is the part of the machine that carries blood to and from your body. A dialysis solution called a dialysate is used with hemodialysis machines to clean the blood inside the dialyzer. Another tube called a drain carries waste out of your body. Bloodlines carry blood throughout the machine and a pump helps move the blood through the tubing system.

Your first dialysis treatment will probably last around four hours. You will be connected to a machine that will clean your blood and remove waste and excess fluid.

Many people are able to go back to work and lead fairly normal lives while on dialysis, but it depends on your individual situation. The average life expectancy for someone receiving treatment is around six years. That number has increased significantly in recent years due to the improvements in dialysis technology.

Yes, some people only need dialysis temporarily while they wait for a kidney transplant. Others may never need it at all if they receive a transplant and their kidney function remains stable over the years.