Kidneys play a significant role in your body filtering out waste products from the bloodstream. However, health problems such as diabetes and hypertension may lead to end-stage renal disease, affecting the functioning of your kidneys. When your kidneys no longer function as they should, treatments such as Cypress home dialysis may be an option for you. Unlike hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen to filter out waste products from the blood.
An advantage of peritoneal dialysis is that you do not require regular hospital visits since your caregiver can help you carry out treatment at home. If your work mainly involves traveling, you can benefit from home peritoneal dialysis. Here is more for you to know about peritoneal dialysis.
Who is a good candidate for peritoneal dialysis?
Not everyone with kidney failure may benefit from peritoneal dialysis. Your doctor may advise against this treatment if you have a weakened area in your abdominal muscles and extensive abdominal scars. People who cannot care for themselves and don’t have caregivers may not be ideal candidates for peritoneal dialysis.
You may consider peritoneal dialysis if you want to limit distractions in your daily activities. It may also be an option for you if the rapid fluid balance changes associated with hemodialysis affect you. People with residual kidney function can also be ideal candidates for this treatment.
How to prepare for peritoneal dialysis
First, the doctor must insert a catheter near your belly button through a surgical procedure. The catheter carries the cleansing fluid in and out of your abdomen. You will receive local or general anesthesia before surgery to prevent any pain and discomfort. After surgery, your doctor will recommend waiting for at least a month before you can begin treatment. During this period, the catheter site heals, and you receive training on how to use peritoneal dialysis equipment.
What are the risks of peritoneal dialysis?
- Hernia. Your abdominal muscles may weaken due to holding in liquid for a long time.
- Weight gain. The dialysis fluid contains sugar, meaning you take in extra calories daily whenever your body absorbs some dialysate. Blood sugar levels may go up, especially for people with diabetes.
- Infections. It is common for patients to develop an infection of the abdominal lining or at the site where the catheter is inserted. Working with an incompetent person increases your risk of infection.
Peritoneal dialysis can also become ineffective after several years, and you may need to switch to hemodialysis.
How can I improve dialysis results?
You need to take medications as prescribed to get the best dialysis results. During treatment, you may need medicines to control blood pressure, prevent phosphorus buildup, and stimulate the production of red blood cells.
Experts recommend eating the right foods, including those low in sodium and phosphorus, to improve your dialysis access and general wellbeing. A dietitian may develop a meal plan that suits you based on your medical condition, personal preferences, weight, and remaining kidney function.
If you have further inquiries about peritoneal dialysis or need to establish whether you are a good candidate, schedule a consultation with your specialist at Houston Kidney Specialists Center.
