Dialysis: A Life-Saving Treatment for Kidney Failure

When the kidneys are unable to adequately remove waste products and excess fluid from the body, waste substances and excess water can begin to accumulate in the blood. When kidney function declines severely, dialysis may be required for some patients.

Dialysis is a treatment method that artificially performs some of the important functions of the kidneys. However, it is not correct to assume that dialysis means the kidneys have completely stopped functioning. The need for dialysis is determined by the physician based on the patient’s overall condition, kidney function, symptoms, and other health complications.

When May Dialysis Be Needed?

Dialysis may be required when kidney function becomes severely reduced and the accumulation of waste products or excess fluid causes complications. Dialysis may also be considered in situations such as severe fluid overload causing breathing difficulties, serious imbalances in certain chemicals in the blood, or symptoms associated with uremia.

The decision to start dialysis is not based solely on a specific creatinine level. A nephrologist considers the patient’s overall health, symptoms, kidney function, and other clinical factors before making this decision.

What Is Hemodialysis?

Hemodialysis is one of the most commonly used forms of dialysis. In this procedure, the patient’s blood is passed through a specialized dialysis machine, where it is filtered and then returned to the body. The dialysis machine helps remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood.

Hemodialysis requires safe and effective access to the bloodstream. For patients who require long-term dialysis, an AV fistula is commonly used as a suitable form of vascular access.

What Is Peritoneal Dialysis?

In peritoneal dialysis, the lining of the abdomen, known as the *peritoneum*, is used as a natural filter. A special dialysis fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity and later drained out, helping remove waste products and excess fluid from the body.

The most suitable dialysis method depends on the patient’s overall health, lifestyle, family support, other medical conditions, and the physician’s assessment.

Dialysis Does Not Mean Life Has to Stop

With appropriate treatment, regular follow-up, adherence to prescribed dialysis sessions, and proper management of diet and fluid intake as advised by the physician, many patients can continue to lead active lives for a long time.

It is important for dialysis patients to have regular monitoring of blood pressure, body weight, blood components, and other health conditions. In addition to dialysis, *kidney transplantation* may be an important long-term treatment option for suitable patients.

Why Is Early Planning Important?

When CKD progresses gradually and dialysis may eventually become necessary, it is important for patients to remain under the care of a nephrologist from an early stage. This allows sufficient time to prepare for vascular access and other necessary measures, reducing the risk of having to start dialysis in an emergency situation.

The earlier kidney disease is detected and managed, the greater the opportunity to preserve kidney function for a longer period. If dialysis becomes necessary, it is important not to panic but to follow the nephrologist’s advice and receive appropriate treatment.