Dialysis how long does it last

Your blood is taken through a special filter called a dialyser, which cleans the blood. The clean blood is then returned to your body. The extra water and waste products, you don't need, travel from your blood through the dialyser and go down the drain. Peritoneal dialysis is currently used by nearly 20 per cent of people who are on dialysis. Many find that peritoneal dialysis can be incorporated well into most lifestyles.

Peritoneal dialysis can be done either during the day or overnight. Daytime sessions are usually done three, four or five times within a hour period. During peritoneal dialysis, a tube catheter is placed in the stomach. Special peritoneal dialysis fluid is then used to clean your blood. Learn more about haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis , or check out our support page for carers and patients.

Centre-based haemodialysis usually takes place in a hospital or 'satellite' dialysis unit. It is more common to have haemodialysis in a dialysis unit than it is to undergo dialysis at home. When it comes to dialysis treatment, it's important that you choose the method right for you. As dialysis can be such a time-consuming process, many people choose to do their haemodialysis at home. This can offer more flexibility in terms of when you do your dialysis and how many hours you do, particularly as doing additional hours is better for your health.

Peritoneal dialysis is a treatment option for end stage kidney disease. After being trained by your healthcare team, you can undergo this method at home, providing you with additional comfort during your treatments. There are some patients who have lived longer on dialysis. These patients have had their life expectancy extended 20 or even 30 years by undergoing regular treatment for end-stage kidney failure. Yes, all patients with end-stage kidney failure have a say in their treatment.

When the kidneys lose so much of their function, dialysis treatment is the only option available that will help a patient stay alive. Failing to undergo this type of end-stage kidney failure treatment can be fatal.

Without treatment patients often only live several weeks once end-stage kidney failure is diagnosed. The entire purpose of kidney dialysis is to take care of essential bodily functions that are unable to be performed because the kidneys no longer properly function. Ask your social worker for help if you are troubled in some area of your life.

Life on dialysis can mean a longer life, but it should also mean a better life. Take an active role in your care team. Make sure you get your full dialysis treatment each and every time. Have meaningful discussions with your care team and take advantage of their experience and personalized care. All of these things will help you live a fuller, more satisfying life.

COVID patients can become kidney patients. You can provide lifesaving support today with a special monthly gift.