When the kidneys stop working properly, they can no longer remove waste and excess fluid from the blood. Dialysis performs this vital function to keep the body balanced and healthy. While many people associate dialysis with regular hospital visits, home dialysis, especially home hemodialysis, has become a safe and flexible option for many patients.
In this guide, we explain what home hemodialysis is, how dialysis is done at home, how to take care of a dialysis patient at home, and what to know about home dialysis machines and costs.
What is Home Hemodialysis? How is Dialysis Done at Home?
Home hemodialysis (HHD) is a type of home dialysis where a patient uses a home dialysis machine to clean their blood at home, instead of travelling to a dialysis centre.
During treatment:
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Blood is drawn from the body through a vascular access
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It passes through a filter called a dialyser (artificial kidney)
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Waste, toxins, and extra fluid are removed
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Clean blood is returned to the body
The dialysis process itself is the same as in-centre dialysis. The key difference is that patients and their care partners perform the treatment at home after proper training, giving them greater independence and control.
Home Hemodialysis Schedules
There are different schedules for doing dialysis at home, and your doctor will help you decide what’s best for your health:
- Conventional home hemodialysis: Done about three times a week for three to four hours per session, similar to clinic dialysis.
- Short daily home hemodialysis: Done five to seven times a week with shorter sessions of around two hours. This frequent approach removes waste more gently.
- Nocturnal home hemodialysis: Done at night while you sleep, typically for six to eight hours, making it easier to fit into your daytime routine.
All these options let you stay in control of your treatment and may improve your quality of life. With more frequent or longer treatments, many patients notice fewer side effects like fatigue or nausea after dialysis.
Can Dialysis Be Done at Home? Who Is Eligible?
Yes, dialysis can be done at home, but it may not be suitable for everyone.
Home hemodialysis may be a good option if:
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You are medically stable and motivated
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You have a trained care partner (family member, friend, or caregiver)
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You have adequate space at home for the dialysis machine and supplies
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You are willing to complete several weeks of training at a dialysis centre
A care partner is usually required to assist with setup, monitoring, and emergencies, ensuring safety during each session.
How to Take Care of a Dialysis Patient at Home
Proper care is essential for safe and effective home dialysis.
1. Maintain a Clean Environment
Keep the dialysis area clean, organised, and free from dust to reduce infection risk.
2. Follow Training Strictly
Always follow the exact steps taught by dialysis nurses for machine setup, needle placement, and monitoring.
3. Practise Excellent Hygiene
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Wash hands thoroughly
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Clean access sites properly
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Disinfect equipment after each session
4. Monitor Diet and Fluid Intake
Patients must carefully manage fluids and nutrients such as sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, based on medical advice.
5. Attend Regular Medical Reviews
Monthly follow-ups allow doctors to review blood tests, adjust dialysis settings, and address complications early.
6. Watch for Warning Signs
Contact your healthcare team if there is fever, redness at the access site, dizziness, breathing difficulty, or unusual pain during dialysis.
Emotional support, routine medication adherence, and adequate rest are equally important.
Home Dialysis Machine: Price and Practical Considerations
The dialysis machine price for home use in India depends on the brand, features, and level of technical support.
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Approximate starting cost: ₹3,00,000
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Advanced or imported machines may cost significantly more
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Refurbished machines are cheaper but require careful quality checks
Ongoing costs include:
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Consumables and supplies
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Regular servicing and maintenance
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Reliable technical support
Insurance coverage may partially include training, equipment, and supplies. Always discuss costs with your dialysis centre and insurer.
Benefits of Home Hemodialysis
Home dialysis offers several advantages:
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Flexible scheduling
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Reduced travel burden
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More frequent dialysis options
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Better symptom control
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Greater independence and comfort at home
Many patients report improved energy levels, appetite, and overall quality of life with home hemodialysis.
Is Home Hemodialysis Right for You?
Home hemodialysis can be life-changing, but it must be chosen carefully. Kidney Specialist in Bengaluru, Dr Mitesh Makwana, emphasises that each patient’s medical condition, home environment, and support system must be evaluated before starting dialysis at home.
Discuss training requirements, machine operation, caregiver support, costs, and monitoring plans with your nephrologist to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Home hemodialysis offers greater control, flexibility, and comfort for people living with kidney failure. With proper training, a suitable home setup, and consistent medical monitoring, dialysis at home can be a safe and effective long-term treatment option. It allows patients to follow flexible schedules, reduce hospital visits, and improve overall quality of life.
However, choosing home dialysis should always be a well-informed decision based on individual health conditions and support systems. For personalised guidance, training evaluation, and the right dialysis plan, consulting an experienced nephrologist like Dr. Mitesh Makwana can help ensure safe treatment and better kidney care outcomes.
