Why Dialysis is Done

You need dialysis if your kidneys no longer function well enough. Kidney damage generally progresses over several years due to long-term conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis)
• Multiple cysts in the kidneys (polycystic kidney disease)

Hemodialysis

In hemodialysis, blood is removed from the body, filtered through a machine, and then returned to the body. Hemodialysis is typically done in a healthcare setting, such as a dialysis center or hospital, though it can sometimes be done at home.

Peritoneal Dialysis

Although both types of dialysis can effectively filter your blood, the benefits of peritoneal dialysis compared to hemodialysis include:

• Greater flexibility and, independence in lifestyle, especially when working, traveling  living far from a hemodialysis center.
• A less restricted diet. Peritoneal dialysis is  performed more continuously than hemodialysis, resulting in less accumulation of potassium, sodium and fluid. This allows you to have a more flexible diet.
• Longer lasting residual kidney function. People  using peritoneal dialysis may maintain kidney function slightly longer than  people using hemodialysis.

Choosing the Right Dialysis

Talk with your doctor about which type of dialysis might be best for you. Factors to consider include:

• Your kidney function
• Your overall health
• Your personal preferences
• Your home situation
• Your lifestyle

Peritoneal dialysis may be the better option if you:

• Can’t tolerate the rapid changes of fluid balance associated with hemodialysis
• Want to minimize the disruption of your daily activities
• Want to work or travel more easily
• Have some residual kidney function

Peritoneal Dialysis Limitations

Peritoneal dialysis might not work if you have:

• Extensive surgical scars in your abdomen
• A large area of weakened abdominal muscle (hernia)
• Limited ability to care for yourself, or a lack of caregiving support
• Inflammatory bowel disease or frequent bouts of diverticulitis

People using peritoneal dialysis may eventually need hemodialysis or a kidney transplant as kidney function declines.

Risks of  Peritoneal Dialysis 

• Infections: An infection of the abdominal lining (peritonitis) is a common complication. Infection can also occur at the site where the catheter is inserted.
• Weight gain: The dialysate contains sugar (dextrose). Absorbing some of the dialysate might cause you to take in extra calories, leading to weight gain and possibly high blood sugar, especially if you have diabetes.
• Hernia: Holding fluid in your abdomen for long periods may strain your muscles.
• Inadequate dialysis: Peritoneal dialysis can become ineffective after several years. You might need to switch to hemodialysis.

For the best kidney care, consult Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar, Kidney Doctor in Pune. He will guide you through the best treatment for any kidney problems.