The kidneys are the filters of our body. Everyday, they process about 200
quarts of blood, and separate out about 2 quarts of waste products and extra
water from it. When the kidneys stop functioning properly, these waste products
and extra water begin to circulate in the body. Patients in end stage renal
failure, are kept alive by dialysis. Before taking a look at the side effects of
kidney dialysis, let's first know about kidney dialysis.
Like most medical treatments, along with all the undisputed benefits come the
possible side effects. Both the dialysis treatments produce side effects that
differ from patient to patient.
Side Effects of Hemodialysis: during dialysis, when too much fluid is removed
from the blood, it results in low blood pressure. It can also cause muscle
cramps in some patients. A common complaint of hemodialysis patients is itchy
skin. A possible cause of this discomfort is the high phosphorus level, often a
result of dialysis. Like in peritoneal dialysis, infection is also a cause of
concern here. Great care needs to be taken to prevent the access from becoming
infected or inflamed. The site can become irritated from pressure placed on it
due to a bad sleeping position, or clothing that can cause abrasion. The area
must be kept clean to prevent blood clots that can hinder treatment.
Side Effects of Peritoneal Dialysis: 1, infection: A person undergoing
dialysis is at risk of getting an infection from bacteria on the outside of the
body. Great care must be taken during the process of filling, dwelling and
draining dialysis solution to lower this risk. Also, where there is frequent
handling of the catheter, risk of infection is higher. The most common type of
infection is peritonitis, where the peritoneum (where the catheter is placed in
the abdomen) gets infected. Another common problem is the development of skin
infections around the catheter insertion site. 2, hernias: In peritoneal
dialysis, the insertion of the catheter weakens the muscles of the abdominal
wall. Pressure produced by the dialysis solution pushing against the already
weakened muscles can lead to a tear, and in this way result in a hernia. 3,
nutrition: Some peritoneal dialysis patients find it difficult to eat, as the
dialysis solution in their stomach area makes them feel full. Lesser food intake
often translates into poor nutrition, which can be detrimental to a patient's
health. On the other hand, some patients gain weight as the outcome of the
treatment. This happens, when their bodies absorb the sugar in the dialysis
solution.
The possibility of the patient developing side effects often depends on how
the kidney dialysis is performed. For example, if proper care and hygiene is not
maintained, a patient can contract an infection. As a patient, if you face any
of these or other side effects of kidney dialysis, it is imperative to inform
your doctor about it. The good news is that there are solutions and preventive
measures to tackle most of the side effects.