What is dialysis?
Dialysis is a medical treatment that is used to replace some of the normal kidney function when your own kidneys aren't working properly.
What is dialysis for?
Dialysis is used to treat kidney failure, which is when your kidneys can no longer filter waste and excess fluid from your blood.
What are the symptoms of kidney failure?
Symptoms of kidney failure include fatigue, swelling in the legs, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and trouble sleeping.
What is peritoneal dialysis?
Peritoneal dialysis is a type of dialysis that involves using the lining of your abdomen (the peritoneum) to clean your blood.
What is the difference between hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis?
Hemodialysis uses a machine to filter your blood, while peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen as a filter.
How often do I need to have dialysis?
How often you need dialysis depends on your individual case. Many people have dialysis three times a week.
What is a fistula in dialysis?
A fistula is a surgical connection between an artery and a vein that is used to provide access for hemodialysis.
What is the purpose of a fistula in dialysis?
A fistula provides a high flow of blood for hemodialysis treatments, making it easier and safer to perform.
How long does it take to create a fistula for dialysis?
It typically takes several months for a new fistula to mature and become usable for dialysis.
What are the advantages of a fistula for dialysis?
Fistulas are preferred over other types of vascular access because they are associated with longer survival, fewer complications, and lower health care costs.
What is Davita dialysis?
Davita is a major provider of dialysis services in the United States.
What is the difference between Davita dialysis and Fresenius dialysis?
Davita and Fresenius are two different providers of dialysis services. The main difference is the company that provides the service.
What is the success rate of dialysis?
The success rate of dialysis varies depending on the individual case. Generally, dialysis is successful in removing waste and fluid from the body, but it is not a cure for kidney failure.
What are the risks of dialysis?
The risks of dialysis include infections, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, and anemia.
What is the most common cause of kidney failure?
The most common cause of kidney failure is diabetes.
What are the benefits of peritoneal dialysis?
The benefits of peritoneal dialysis include the ability to perform the treatment at home, less need for dietary restrictions, and fewer associated complications.
What is the difference between acute and chronic dialysis?
Acute dialysis refers to short-term treatment for sudden kidney failure, while chronic dialysis refers to long-term treatment for chronic kidney disease.
What are the different types of peritoneal dialysis?
The two main types of peritoneal dialysis are continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and automated peritoneal dialysis (APD).
What is the cost of dialysis?
The cost of dialysis varies depending on the individual case and the provider of the service. In the United States, Medicare covers the cost of dialysis for eligible patients.
What is hemodialysis?
Hemodialysis is a type of dialysis that involves using a machine to filter your blood outside of your body.
What are the disadvantages of hemodialysis?
Disadvantages of hemodialysis include the need for frequent treatments, dietary restrictions, and the risk of complications such as infections and low blood pressure.
What is the lifespan of a fistula for dialysis?
The lifespan of a fistula for dialysis varies depending on the individual case, but they can last for many years if properly cared for.
What is the difference between a fistula and a graft for dialysis?
A fistula is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein, while a graft is a synthetic tube that is implanted under the skin to provide access for hemodialysis.
What is the success rate of peritoneal dialysis?
The success rate of peritoneal dialysis varies depending on the individual case, but it is considered a safe and effective alternative to hemodialysis.
What is the process of peritoneal dialysis?
The process of peritoneal dialysis involves inserting a catheter into your abdomen to allow a special fluid to be infused into your peritoneal cavity. The fluid collects waste and excess fluid from your blood, which is then drained out of your body.
What are the advantages of hemodialysis?
The advantages of hemodialysis include the ability to remove more waste and fluid from the body compared to peritoneal dialysis, and it requires less time each day.
How long does hemodialysis take?
Hemodialysis treatments typically take around four hours, three times a week.
What is the outlook for people on dialysis?
The outlook for people on dialysis varies depending on the individual case. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, however, many people on dialysis are able to live long and healthy lives.
What is the difference between acute kidney failure and chronic kidney disease?
Acute kidney failure is a sudden loss of kidney function, while chronic kidney disease is a slow, progressive loss of kidney function over time.
What are some lifestyle changes that can help improve the success of dialysis treatment?
Lifestyle changes that can help improve the success of dialysis treatment include following a kidney-friendly diet, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.
