Understanding Dialysis: What Patients Need to Know

Introduction

Dialysis is a life-sustaining medical procedure used when the kidneys are no longer able to carry out their essential functions — particularly the filtration of waste products, excess fluid, and toxins from the blood. This typically occurs in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), when kidney function drops below 10–15%, and the body can no longer maintain internal chemical balance on its own.

Every day, thousands of patients in India begin dialysis as part of their treatment for advanced kidney failure — yet many still have questions about how it works, what to expect, and how to manage life while undergoing it.

This blog offers a complete, research-backed overview of dialysis types, preparation, risks, lifestyle considerations, and nutritional recommendations. At LB Clinics, we support patients undergoing dialysis by offering specialized clinical nutrition plans that help manage fluid balance, electrolyte levels, and overall well-being — all tailored to each individual's medical profile.

Understanding dialysis helps patients and families make informed, confident decisions — not just about treatment, but about quality of life and long-term health outcomes.

What Is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a medical process that:

• Removes waste products like urea and creatinine from the blood
  
  

• Controls blood pressure
  
  

• Maintains proper balance of fluids, electrolytes, and minerals

It is not a cure for kidney failure, but it replaces part of the kidneys’ filtering role — helping patients live longer and feel better when kidneys cannot function adequately.

Who Needs Dialysis?

Dialysis is typically recommended in Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease, where eGFR falls below 15 ml/min. It may also be started earlier if symptoms of uremia (toxic buildup) appear.

Common signs that dialysis may be needed:

• Severe fatigue or confusion
  
  

• Nausea and vomiting from uremic toxins
  
  

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  
  

• Swelling due to fluid overload
  
  

• Dangerous potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
  
  

• Poor appetite and persistent itching
  

Decision to start dialysis is based on a combination of lab tests, symptoms, and the patient’s overall clinical profile.

Types of Dialysis

There are two main types of dialysis:

1. Hemodialysis (HD)

• Blood is removed from the body, filtered through a machine (dialyzer), and returned.
  
  

• Usually performed 3 times per week, for 3–5 hours per session.
  
  

• Access is via a fistula, graft, or catheter.
  

Setting: Most often done in a dialysis center or hospital.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)

• The lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) is used as a natural filter.
  
  

• A special fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity via a catheter.
  
  

• Waste products pass from the blood into this fluid, which is then drained.

Types of PD:

• Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) – manual, done several times daily.
  
  

• Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD) – uses a machine overnight at home.
  

Both methods have pros and cons. Choice depends on lifestyle, health status, and support system.

Preparing for Dialysis

Preparing for dialysis involves both physical and emotional readiness:

• Vascular access: For hemodialysis, a surgeon creates an arteriovenous fistula (preferred) or graft weeks before starting treatment.
  
  

• Catheter placement: For peritoneal dialysis, a soft tube is inserted into the abdomen.
  
  

• Education sessions: Patients are educated about hygiene, access care, diet, and fluid limits.
  
  

• Emotional support: Counseling is often recommended to help manage the psychological impact of long-term dialysis.

Risks and Side Effects of Dialysis

Like all medical treatments, dialysis has potential risks and complications:

Most side effects are manageable when caught early. Regular monitoring is key.

Dialysis Diet: What to Eat and Avoid

Diet plays a major role in dialysis care. The goal is to minimize waste accumulation and manage fluid retention between treatments.

General Guidelines (to be customized by a renal dietitian):

Note: Each patient’s needs vary — diet should always be supervised by a clinical nutritionist familiar with renal care.

Home Dialysis Options

Patients who prefer flexibility may explore home dialysis, especially peritoneal dialysis or nocturnal hemodialysis.

Benefits include:

• Greater schedule flexibility
  
  

• Fewer hospital visits
  
  

• Gentler fluid removal (may reduce fatigue)
  
  

• Potential for better long-term outcomes in selected cases
  

Challenges include:

• Need for caregiver support
  
  

• Risk of infection
  
  

• Daily responsibility and equipment management

Home dialysis is growing in popularity but requires discipline, training, and commitment.

Alternatives and Adjuncts to Dialysis

While dialysis is the mainstay of treatment in end-stage kidney failure, patients may also explore:

• Kidney transplantation (if eligible)
  
  

• Palliative care (if dialysis is declined due to age or comorbidities)
  
  

• Integrative kidney support (for early-stage CKD or dialysis prep), including:
  
  

• Anti-inflammatory diets
  
  

• Blood pressure control
  
  

• Diabetes management
  
  

• Herbal adjuncts (under supervision only)

LB Clinic offers support for pre-dialysis kidney health, but does not provide dialysis itself.

FAQs on Dialysis Information for Patients

1. Is dialysis painful?

Dialysis is generally not painful. Some people experience mild discomfort during needle insertion or muscle cramps post-treatment.

2. How long can someone live on dialysis?

Many patients live for several years or even decades with proper care. Quality of life depends on overall health, adherence, and complications.

3. Can you stop dialysis once started?

In most cases, dialysis is lifelong unless a transplant is received. Some patients choose palliative care if quality of life declines.

4. Can I travel if I’m on dialysis?

Yes, but it requires planning. Many cities have guest dialysis facilities, and home dialysis adds flexibility.

5. How do I prepare mentally for dialysis?

Counselling, patient support groups, and education help reduce anxiety and improve adjustment.

Final Thoughts

Dialysis is a major life adjustment — but for many, it is also a lifeline. Understanding the process, risks, and self-care routines can help patients feel more confident and in control.

LB Clinic does not offer dialysis services, but we are deeply committed to supporting individuals at all stages of kidney health treatment in delhi  — especially those in early CKD stages, where prevention and slowing progression are still possible.

For those navigating the transition to dialysis, we recommend:

• Partnering with a nephrologist you trust
  
  

• Seeking mental health support
  
  

• Building a reliable care network
  
  

• Staying educated and proactive
  
  

Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Deepika Krishna, Founder, L&B Clinic

References

1. National Kidney Foundation. (2023). Understanding Dialysis.
   
   

2. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Dialysis: Purpose, Procedure, and Side Effects.
   
   

3. Indian Society of Nephrology (ISN). (2022). Dialysis Guidelines and Patient Resources.
   
   

4. Coresh J. et al. (2019). Trends in CKD and ESKD Outcomes. Lancet Nephrology

5. NIN India. (2020). Nutrition Guidelines for Dialysis Patients in Indian Settings