Understanding Dialysis: A Lifeline for Kidney Health
Dialysis is a critical procedure designed to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys fail to function properly. Normally, the kidneys filter the blood, eliminating harmful waste products and excess fluid, which are then excreted as urine. However, when the kidneys are impaired, dialysis becomes necessary to perform this vital function.Types of DialysisThere are two primary types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.Hemodialysis: In hemodialysis, the patient's blood is circulated through a machine called a dialyzer, which acts as an artificial kidney. The dialyzer removes waste products and excess fluids from the blood, and the cleaned blood is then returned to the patient's body. Hemodialysis is typically conducted at a dialysis center or hospital. Alternatively, patients can opt for home hemodialysis, where they administer the treatment themselves. This option provides greater flexibility in scheduling and empowers patients to take an active role in their care.Peritoneal Dialysis: Peritoneal dialysis utilizes the peritoneal membrane lining the abdomen as a natural filter. A dialysis solution is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a catheter, allowing waste products and excess fluids to pass from the blood vessels in the peritoneal membrane into the dialysis solution. The used solution is drained after a set period, and fresh solution is introduced. Peritoneal dialysis can often be performed at home, offering patients the convenience of managing their treatment in familiar surroundings. Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis (CCPD) automates this process with a cycler machine, making it particularly suitable for nighttime use and allowing for greater freedom during the day.…