Your kidneys are a vital organ, integral to your overall health. When they fail, they no longer filter your blood as needed, and waste and toxins build up in your bloodstream. Kidney failure is highly detrimental to your health and requires treatment, the most popular of which is dialysis. Below, you will find helpful information on how to determine which type of dialysis is best for you.
Types of Dialysis Treatment
There are two types of dialysis treatments, each with unique qualities and differences.
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is the most commonly selected type of dialysis. It is performed at a kidney dialysis center, and the treatment process involves filtering blood outside of the body with a machine called a dialyzer, which is essentially an artificial kidney. The treatment is done under medical supervision and is safe, effective, and fast. Most patients only require the treatment to be performed a few times a week.
Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis is an alternative dialysis treatment option to hemodialysis. Unlike hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis treatment filters the blood while it is inside of your body rather than outside. This treatment method uses the peritoneum, a membrane that lines your abdominal cavity, as a filter. During treatment, a catheter is placed into your abdomen, and a cleansing fluid called dialysate is introduced into the catheter to absorb waste from your blood. Once complete, the dialysate is drained and replaced with fresh fluid. The benefit of this treatment option is that it can be completed at home. This provides more flexibility if you have a busy schedule.
How To Determine Which Type of Dialysis Is Best for You
Dialysis is an essential treatment for people experiencing kidney failure. There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis is done at a clinic, while peritoneal dialysis is completed at home. It is essential to work with a dialysis specialist to determine which treatment is the best for you. Before you choose, several factors must be considered.
Personal Lifestyle
Your day-to-day life impacts which dialysis treatment is right for you. It is important to consider your work schedule, social life, and level of physical activity. Hemodialysis involves treatment at a clinic, while peritoneal dialysis allows one to undergo treatment in the comfort of one’s own home. The flexibility of peritoneal dialysis makes it an exellent option for those who have busy work and social life schedules.
Your Health Condition
The type of health condition you have can dictate what type of dialysis is right for you. If you have a serious heart condition, hemodialysis may be a safer option because you would be closely monitored by medical professionals at the treatment clinic to ensure your health and safety. If you are preserving your remaining kidney functions, peritoneal dialysis may be a better option because it is a more gentle alternative to hemodialysis.
Location and Access to Care
Unfortunately, where you live may impact which type of dialysis treatments are available to you. For example, if you live in a rural area, you may not be able to easily access a dialysis treatment clinic, and at-home dialysis may be your only option. However, if you feel that you would benefit from supervision while performing your dialysis, traveling to a treatment center may be worthwhile. Talk to your medical provider about which option they think is right for you.
Dialysis Specialist in Beverly Hills
Your kidney health is essential to your overall health, so caring for your kidneys is vital, especially if you are already facing kidney health complications. Dr. Gura and his team are experts in dialysis and kidney health. Contact their office today to schedule an appointment!