Hemodialysis: What It Is, Types & Procedure

Kidneys are essential organs that act like natural filters, helping remove waste, excess fluids, and toxins from your blood. When the kidneys stop functioning, this crucial filtration process slows down or stops entirely. In such situations, haemodialysis becomes a life-saving treatment option.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through what haemodialysis is, how the haemodialysis process works, the types of haemodialysis processes, and what to expect during the haemodialysis procedure.

What is Haemodialysis?

Haemodialysis is a medical procedure that performs the job of healthy kidneys when they can no longer work adequately. The term breaks down into “haemo” (meaning blood) and “dialysis” (meaning cleaning), so it literally means “cleaning the blood.”

In simpler terms, haemodialysis removes waste products, excess salt, and water from the blood when the kidneys are damaged or failing. It also helps balance important minerals like potassium, calcium, and sodium and regulates blood pressure.

This treatment is typically recommended when someone develops Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD), the last stage of kidney failure, where kidney function drops to less than 10-15% of normal.

Why is Haemodialysis Needed?

Healthy kidneys filter about 50 gallons of blood each day. But when kidney function falls significantly, waste and fluids accumulate, causing symptoms such as:

• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Swelling in the hands and feet
• Difficulty breathing
• Confusion or memory issues

In such cases, a nephrologist in Bangalore or elsewhere may recommend dialysis for kidney disease to help maintain the body’s balance and prevent life-threatening complications.

Understanding the Haemodialysis Process

The haemodialysis process involves diverting the patient’s blood into a machine called a dialyser, often referred to as an artificial kidney. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the haemodialysis process:

• First, a vascular access point is created (often in the arm). This allows blood to flow to and from the dialysis machine efficiently.
• Then, the blood from the body is pumped through tubes into the dialyser.
• Inside the dialyser, the blood flows through a set of thin fibres or membranes. These act as filters, removing waste and extra fluid while keeping essential elements like red blood cells and nutrients.
• The filtered, clean blood is then pumped back into the patient’s body.

Each session lasts about 3 to 5 hours and is usually done thrice weekly. A nephrology hospital will customise the frequency and duration based on your medical condition and overall health.

Haemodialysis Procedure: What to Expect

Whether performed at a hospital or home, understanding the haemodialysis procedure helps reduce anxiety and improve patient cooperation.

Pre-Dialysis:

• Weight and vital signs are checked.
• The access site is cleaned.
• A nurse or technician connects you to the machine using needles inserted into your access.

During Dialysis:

• You can read, nap, watch TV, or even work on a laptop (in some cases).
• Nurses monitor your blood pressure, machine settings, and overall comfort.
• If you experience cramps or dizziness, inform the staff immediately.

Post-Dialysis:

• The needles are removed, and the site is bandaged.
• You may feel tired or lightheaded, but this typically improves with regular sessions.
• You will be advised to follow a kidney-friendly diet, limit fluid intake, and monitor your medications.

Living with Haemodialysis

While haemodialysis does not cure kidney disease, it allows patients to continue living productive lives. Here are a few tips for managing dialysis better:

• Follow a strict diet: Limit salt, potassium, phosphorus, and fluids as advised.
• Take medications on time: Including phosphate binders, BP medications, and vitamins.
• Avoid infections: Keep the access site clean and report any redness or pain.
• Stay active: Light exercise can boost mood and energy levels.
• Attend all appointments: Regular checkups help monitor your progress.

Choosing the Right Care: Why It Matters

Your dialysis success depends significantly on your healthcare team’s expertise. Choosing a trusted nephrology hospital in Bangalore ensures access to experienced doctors, modern dialysis machines, and 24/7 care. If you are starting dialysis, it’s essential to consult a nephrologist in Bangalore or another city to assess your kidney health and plan your treatment journey.

Final Thoughts

Haemodialysis is more than just a medical procedure. It’s a life-sustaining bridge for people battling advanced kidney disease. Patients and families can make informed decisions about their care by understanding what haemodialysis is, the haemodialysis process, and the types of haemodialysis processes available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is haemodialysis, and how does it work?

Haemodialysis is a treatment that cleans your blood when your kidneys are no longer able to do so. During the process, blood is taken out of your body, filtered through a machine called a dialyser to remove waste and excess fluids, and then returned to your body.

Who needs haemodialysis?

People with advanced kidney disease or kidney failure (also called end-stage renal disease) often need haemodialysis to help maintain the balance of fluids and minerals in their bodies.

How often do I need haemodialysis?

Most patients undergo haemodialysis thrice a week, lasting about 3 to 5 hours each session. However, the frequency can vary based on individual health conditions.

What are the types of haemodialysis?

The main types include in-centre haemodialysis (at a hospital or clinic), home haemodialysis, and nocturnal haemodialysis (performed overnight).

Is haemodialysis painful?

The insertion of needles for vascular access may cause mild discomfort, but the dialysis process itself is generally painless. Most patients can read, watch TV, or rest during sessions.

Can I live a normal life on haemodialysis?

Yes, many people live active and fulfilling lives while on haemodialysis by following medical advice, managing diet and fluids, and attending regular treatments.

Are there any risks associated with haemodialysis?

Yes, there are some risks related to hemodialysis. Some risks include low blood pressure, muscle cramps, infections at the access site, and fatigue. These can be managed effectively with proper care and monitoring.