Dialysis Treatment for Renal Failure

Dialysis is a process for removing waste and excess water from the blood, and is used primarily to provide anartificial replacement for lost kidney function in people with renal failure.Dialysis may be used for those with an acute disturbance in kidney function, or progressive but chronically worsening kidney function–a state known as chronic kidney disease stage 5. The latter form may develop over months or years, but in contrast to acute kidney injury is not usually reversible, and dialysis is regarded as a "holding measure" until a renal transplant can be performed, or sometimes as the only supportive measure in those for whom a transplant would be inappropriate.
Peritoneal Dialysis involves the use of a small simple machine. Most of your dialysis happens over approximately 8-9 hours at night. You are attached to the machine for the duration of your treatment, most people find it convenient and manage to sleep quite well once they are used to it. A small amount of involvement is required during the day but this is kept to the minimum and fits in with your plans. However, it may not offer the best treatment for everyone and it is something that will be discussed with your healthcare professionals.
One of the biggest adjustments you must make when you start hemodialysis treatments is following a strict schedule. Most patients go to a clinic-a dialysis center-three times a week for 3 to 5 or more hours each visit. For example, you may be on a Monday-Wednesday-Friday schedule or a Tuesday-Thursday-Saturday schedule. You may be asked to choose a morning, afternoon, or evening shift, depending on availability and capacity at the dialysis unit. Your dialysis center will explain your options for scheduling regular treatments.