If kidney disease goes undetected or untreated in its early stages, it can progress to kidney failure, requiring you to undergo dialysis. Dialysis is a treatment method designed to perform the vital functions of the kidneys when they are no longer able to do so. While dialysis is not a cure for kidney disease, it can help you manage the disease and live a healthy life while you wait for a kidney transplant if you're a candidate for one.
At Dallas Renal Group, we understand that selecting the right dialysis method and treatment schedule can feel overwhelming. That’s why we are committed to helping our patients explore their options to find the best solution for their lifestyle and health. Let’s take a closer look at the two main types of dialysis—hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis—and the scheduling options available for each.
Dialysis is a process that mimics the function of your kidneys. When your kidneys lose the ability to filter waste, excess fluids, and electrolytes from your blood, dialysis takes over those functions. Kidney failure can be caused by a number of factors, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and other chronic conditions.
Although dialysis is life-saving, it is not a cure. The ideal treatment for kidney failure is a kidney transplant, and your doctor at Dallas Renal Group will guide you through the process if you are a suitable candidate. However, until a kidney transplant becomes an option, dialysis remains the most effective way to manage kidney failure and support your body’s vital functions.
Hemodialysis is the most widely used form of dialysis for kidney failure. During this treatment, a machine filters waste and extra fluids from your blood outside of your body. The process begins with the insertion of two needles into a blood vessel, typically in the arm, to allow blood to flow through the dialysis machine.
The hemodialysis machine uses a filter called a dialyzer to clean the blood. Inside the dialyzer, your blood passes through a series of thin fibers that allow waste products, excess salt, and fluids to be removed. The clean blood is then returned to your body through the second needle.
For most people, hemodialysis treatments are done three times a week for four to five hours each session. While this might seem like a big time commitment, it’s essential for keeping your blood clean and your body in balance.
For many patients, the idea of going to a dialysis center three times a week is not always feasible. That's why Dallas Renal Group offers a solution through Liberty Home Dialysis, a company that provides at-home dialysis services.
Home dialysis allows you to receive your treatment in the comfort of your own home at a time that is convenient for you. You won’t need to visit a dialysis clinic, and you can often perform your treatment during the morning or evening hours. Whether you prefer to dialyze before starting your day or after spending time with your family, home dialysis offers much-needed flexibility.
Liberty Home Dialysis provides a nurse who will come to your home to deliver treatment. They will also offer training to help you manage your own dialysis sessions. By bringing the treatment to you, Liberty Home Dialysis works to eliminate many of the challenges associated with traditional clinic visits, helping you feel more in control of your health.
If home dialysis is not an option for you, Dallas Renal Group partners with several state-of-the-art dialysis clinics in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. These clinics are staffed with highly trained and licensed renal nurses who will help guide you through your treatment. Each clinic is equipped with the latest technology to ensure the best possible care for our patients.
One thing to keep in mind is that dialysis centers typically have set hours for treatments, so you may have less flexibility in terms of scheduling. However, the convenience of having trained professionals oversee your treatment can help alleviate any concerns or complications.
It’s important to remember that while clinic dialysis sessions are scheduled a few times a week, patients can still lead relatively normal lives in between treatments as long as they follow their doctor's advice regarding diet, fluid intake, and other lifestyle factors.
For some patients, peritoneal dialysis is an alternative to hemodialysis. This form of dialysis uses the membrane that lines your abdomen, known as the peritoneum, to filter waste from your blood. A catheter is placed in your abdominal cavity to introduce a dialysis solution. This solution fills the space around your organs and draws out waste, excess fluid, and other harmful substances from your blood through the peritoneal membrane.
There are two types of peritoneal dialysis:
While peritoneal dialysis is done every day, it can be more flexible than hemodialysis because patients can perform their treatment at home and on their own schedule. If you are interested in learning more about this option, your kidney doctor at Dallas Renal Group will discuss whether peritoneal dialysis might be a suitable choice for you.
Selecting the best dialysis method and schedule is a personal decision, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Factors like your health, lifestyle, and personal preferences all play a role in choosing the right treatment.
At Dallas Renal Group, we believe in offering our patients the tools and resources they need to make an informed decision. Your kidney doctor will work closely with you to evaluate your condition and determine the best dialysis method, whether it’s hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Our team will provide you with detailed information, support, and training to help you feel confident in your treatment.
If you or a loved one is facing kidney failure and needs dialysis, it’s important to have the right care team by your side. At Dallas Renal Group, we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re considering home dialysis or clinic treatment, our team is dedicated to providing you with the best care possible.
Our nephrology team meets with you to understand your medical history, current kidney condition, and health goals.
We prepare an individualized kidney care plan based on your specific diagnosis and treatment needs.
We coordinate the necessary resources—medications, equipment, and support services to ensure effective renal care delivery.
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