Hemodialysis is a life-saving method that clears toxic substances from the body when the kidneys cannot perform their functions. When substances such as urea, creatinine, phosphorus and potassium cannot be removed sufficiently by the kidneys, they build up in the blood and can lead to serious health problems. At RenMed Dialysis Center, we offer our patients a safe and comfortable hemodialysis treatment process.
What Is Hemodialysis and How Does It Work?
Hemodialysis is the process of cleaning the patient’s unfiltered blood with a dialysis machine and returning it to the body. The main types of vascular access used are:
Fistula: provides a permanent and safe vascular access by surgically joining an artery and a vein. A wait of 2–3 weeks is required before the first session.
Graft: a permanent vascular access made with an artificial vessel. A wait of 2–3 weeks is required before hemodialysis.
Catheter: a temporary vascular access placed in the groin, neck or below the collarbone in emergencies.
Blood taken from the patient is passed through capillary filters called dialyzers. Toxic substances pass into the dialysate fluid and the cleaned blood is returned to circulation. The number and length of sessions and the device settings are determined by the physician according to the patient’s physiological needs.
Who Is Dialysis For?
Hemodialysis is critically important for patients with chronic kidney failure. When the kidneys cannot perform their functions, the body’s water, electrolyte and pH balance is disturbed. Hemodialysis can also be used in cases of acute kidney failure.
Thanks to patients’ regular medical check-ups, the frequency and length of hemodialysis, the type of dialyzer and the blood–dialysate flow rate during treatment are determined.
- Swelling in the legs
- A low or high pulse
- Loss or disturbance of consciousness
- Fatigue and weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea and loss of appetite
- Hiccups
- Sleep disorders
When these symptoms are observed, the physician adjusts the dialysis schedule.
What Hemodialysis Patients Should Pay Attention To
- Sticking to the dialysis schedule: Sessions must not be skipped.
- Salt and fluid intake: Should be kept limited under physician supervision.
- Phosphorus and potassium intake: Should be monitored regularly.
- Dietitian support: A personalized diet plan should be prepared for the patient.
- Lifestyle: Ideal weight should be maintained, regular exercise done, and alcohol and smoking stopped.
Advantages of Hemodialysis
- It cleans the blood quickly and effectively.
- Treatment is carried out by trained staff.
- It is faster and more efficient than peritoneal dialysis.
- It improves the patient’s quality of life, with long intervals between sessions.
- Social contact in the hemodialysis unit reduces stress.
At RenMed Dialysis Center, we offer our patients comfortable, safe and personalized hemodialysis treatment. Your health is our priority.
