When the kidneys stop functioning properly, harmful waste products, excess fluids, and toxins begin to accumulate in the blood. Kidney dialysis is a life-saving medical treatment that removes these wastes and helps maintain fluid and electrolyte balance when the kidneys can no longer perform this function on their own. For patients with advanced kidney disease, structured dialysis care treatment in Bengaluru ensures safe waste removal, fluid balance, and continuous medical monitoring.
As explained by Dr Mitesh Makwana, a kidney specialist, dialysis helps remove waste from the blood and manage symptoms, improving quality of life when the kidneys are no longer working properly.
Quick Overview: Kidney Dialysis
Kidney dialysis is a treatment that replaces some functions of failed kidneys by removing waste products, excess water, and toxins from the blood. It helps control blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and prevent serious complications in patients with advanced kidney disease or kidney failure.
What is Kidney Dialysis Treatment and Why is it Needed?
Many people ask, What is kidney dialysis?
Kidney dialysis is required when the kidneys lose most of their ability to filter blood effectively. Healthy kidneys continuously remove waste products such as urea and creatinine while maintaining fluid and mineral balance. When this function drops to a critical level, waste builds up rapidly, leading to serious health risks.
Dialysis takes over this filtering role using specialised equipment or the body’s natural membranes. Without dialysis or a kidney transplant, kidney failure can be life-threatening.
Kidney Dialysis Symptoms: Signs You May Need Dialysis
Before starting dialysis, patients often experience symptoms caused by worsening kidney function. Common kidney dialysis symptoms include:
- Reduced urine output or difficulty passing urine
- Swelling in the feet, ankles, hands, or face
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Nausea, vomiting, or poor appetite
- Shortness of breath due to fluid buildup
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
If these symptoms appear, early evaluation by a kidney specialist is essential to decide whether dialysis or other treatments are required.
What are the Types of Kidney Dialysis?
There are two main types of kidney dialysis, each working in a different way to clean the blood.
1. Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is the most commonly used form of kidney dialysis. It uses a dialysis machine and a special filter called a dialyser (artificial kidney).
How hemodialysis works:
- Blood is removed through a vascular access (usually in the arm)
- The dialyser filters out waste and extra fluid
- Cleaned blood is returned to the body
Each session typically lasts 3–4 hours and is usually done three times per week at a dialysis centre or hospital. Some patients may also choose home hemodialysis after proper training.
2. Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis uses the inner lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter. A special dialysis fluid is placed into the abdominal cavity through a catheter, absorbs waste products, and is then drained out.
Types of peritoneal dialysis:
- Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD): Manual fluid exchanges several times a day
- Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD): Exchanges done automatically by a machine, often at night
This method allows greater independence but requires strict hygiene and daily routine.
What is the Procedure for Kidney Dialysis?
Hemodialysis Procedure
Before starting hemodialysis, a minor surgical procedure is performed to create a vascular access (fistula or graft). During dialysis:
- Blood is drawn from the body
- Filtered through the dialyser
- Returned safely to the bloodstream
The process itself is usually painless, though patients may feel mild discomfort from needle insertion.
Peritoneal Dialysis Procedure
A soft catheter is placed into the abdomen through a minor surgery. Patients are trained to:
- Fill the abdomen with dialysis fluid
- Allow waste to collect
- Drain the used fluid
Some patients may feel temporary fullness, but the procedure is generally well tolerated.
Kidney Dialysis Risks and Side Effects
Although dialysis is essential for survival, it can have some risks and side effects.
Common Side Effects
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue after sessions
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea or dizziness
- Headaches
- Itchy skin
- Electrolyte imbalance
Risks by Dialysis Type
- Hemodialysis: Infection or clotting at the access site
- Peritoneal Dialysis: Risk of peritonitis if hygiene is not maintained
Most side effects can be managed effectively with proper medical supervision.
What is the Function of Kidney Dialysis?
The primary function of kidney dialysis is to replace the filtering role of damaged kidneys. Dialysis helps:
- Remove waste products and toxins from the blood
- Eliminate excess water and salt
- Maintain electrolyte balance
- Control blood pressure
- Reduce complications affecting the heart and lungs
While dialysis manages kidney failure, it does not cure it. Long-term treatment or kidney transplantation may be required.
What is the Cost of Kidney Dialysis?
The cost of kidney dialysis varies based on treatment type, location, and healthcare facility.
- In India, hemodialysis typically costs ₹2,000–₹5,000 per session
- With three sessions per week, monthly expenses can be significant
- Peritoneal dialysis involves recurring monthly costs for fluids and supplies
Insurance coverage and government health schemes may reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Patients should discuss cost planning with their healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Kidney dialysis is a critical treatment for patients whose kidneys can no longer perform essential functions. It helps remove toxins, manage symptoms, and extend life expectancy while maintaining quality of life. Although dialysis involves lifestyle adjustments and potential risks, many patients continue to work, travel, and stay active with proper care.
If you or a loved one is facing kidney failure, consulting a specialist such as Dr. Mitesh Makwana can help you understand treatment options, choose the right type of dialysis, and receive personalised kidney care for long-term health management.
