Dialysis for Chronic Kidney Disease

Dialysis is a type of treatment for people who have kidney failure. This stage of kidney disease is also called end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).^1,2

Your kidneys filter the extra fluids and waste from your blood. Kidney failure happens when your kidneys cannot do this job anymore. This leads to a buildup of waste in the body, which makes you feel very sick.^1,2

When your kidneys have lost about 85 to 90 percent of their function, you will feel the bad effects and symptoms of failed kidneys. At this point, you will need dialysis.²

How does dialysis work?

Dialysis uses a special machine to clean your blood. This machine essentially does the work of your kidneys.^1,2

During dialysis, the machine filters extra salt, waste, and fluids from your blood. In doing so, it also:²

• Helps control your blood pressure
• Maintains a safe level of potassium, sodium, and bicarbonate in your blood

For most people with kidney failure, kidney function will never improve. They will need dialysis for the rest of their life unless they are a good candidate for a kidney transplant.^1,2

What are the types of dialysis?

There are 3 types of dialysis: hemodialysis, home hemodialysis, and peritoneal dialysis (PD).^1-3

Hemodialysis

During hemodialysis, you are hooked up to a machine that cleans your blood. Your blood is sent to the machine through a needle and tube. On average, one round of hemodialysis takes about 3 to 4 hours. It can be done at a dialysis center (center-based dialysis) or at home (home hemodialysis).^1,3

For hemodialysis given at a dialysis center, you will likely need 3 treatments per week. A nurse or dialysis technician will administer your treatment.^1,3

People who opt for home hemodialysis do treatments usually about 4 to 6 days a week. You and a partner can give the treatment once you have received proper training.^1,3

Take some time to decide which type of hemodialysis works with your daily routine and lifestyle. Whichever type you choose – whether in-center or at-home dialysis – you and your doctor will come up with a schedule that works for you.³

Peritoneal dialysis

With peritoneal dialysis, a solution is put in your belly via a thin tube (catheter). This solution, called dialysate, cleans your body. It stays in your belly for a few hours and is then drained out through the same catheter. More fluid is then replaced.^1,2,4

This process is done several times each day. It can also be automated using a special machine called a cycler at night.^4,5

PD is done at home rather than in a treatment center. While the solution is inside your belly, you can go about your day and do most normal daily activities.^1,2,4

What are the possible side effects?

There are side effects of dialysis that you should be aware of. Side effects may include:^1-4

• Irritation or pain at the access site
• Low blood pressure
• Itchy skin
• Fatigue before and after treatments
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Muscle cramps
• Anemia
• Bone problems

These are not all the possible side effects of dialysis. Talk to your doctor about what to expect from dialysis. If you have any concerns about the side effects you are having, tell your doctor.^1,2

Other things to know

Each type of dialysis has advantages and disadvantages. Which method you choose depends on your:^1-4

• Overall health
• Other medical needs
• Comfort with giving your own treatment
• Lifestyle

Before beginning dialysis treatment for ESKD, tell your doctor about all of your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take. This includes over-the-counter drugs. This will help your medical team determine which dialysis treatment is the best option for you.^1-4