Hemodialysis

A standard hemodialysis session usually lasts 4 hours and is performed 3 times a week. The session length is set individually by the physician according to the patient’s weight, level of kidney function, fluid load and blood values.

At our center, weight, blood pressure and general condition are routinely checked before and after each session.

Hemodialysis is usually performed 3 days a week, with each session lasting 3–5 hours. However, this may vary depending on the patient’s needs and the doctor’s recommendations.

Dialysis itself is not a painful procedure. There is only a brief pricking sensation when the needles are inserted into the vascular access at the start of the session.

Low blood pressure, cramps or nausea may occur during the session; our team assesses these symptoms immediately and intervenes. It is important to tell your nurse whenever you feel unwell.

Hemodialysis patients need to limit their intake of potassium, sodium, phosphorus and fluids. They should also be careful about their protein intake. Working with a dietitian is recommended for information and guidance about their special diet.

Yes, hemodialysis patients can travel. However, before traveling they need to contact dialysis centers at their destination and plan their treatment times.

Many patients may feel tired after hemodialysis. The rest period varies from person to person, but resting for a few hours after treatment is generally beneficial.

Blood is taken from the vascular access through a thin line into the dialysis machine and passed through an artificial kidney filter called a “dialyzer”. In the filter, waste products and excess fluid pass into a special solution (dialysate); the cleaned blood then returns to the body.

Dry weight is the weight you should be when there is no excess fluid in your body. The goal of each session is to bring you closer to this weight. Your physician sets your dry weight and updates it over time according to your blood pressure, edema and general condition.

During the session you can rest in your chair, read, watch TV or sleep. Our center has wireless internet. You only need to take care not to move the arm with the vascular access.

It is recommended that you come to the session after a light meal, follow your fluid restriction since the previous session and keep your vascular access area clean. Your physician will tell you separately which medications to take before or after the session.

When too much fluid is removed from the body in a short time, blood pressure can drop; you may feel dizzy, yawn, feel nauseous or sweat. If this happens, tell the team immediately. Following your fluid restriction between sessions significantly reduces this risk.

Cramps are usually related to rapid fluid removal and are temporary. Tell your nurse as soon as you feel one; the fluid removal rate is adjusted to relieve you. If you get cramps often, your dry weight and treatment schedule are reviewed with your physician.

A missed session can cause substances such as fluid and potassium to rise to dangerous levels in the body. If you cannot come to a session, call the center as soon as possible; a make-up session will be planned. If you experience shortness of breath or noticeable swelling, go to the emergency department without delay.

In chronic kidney failure, dialysis continues regularly until a kidney transplant is performed. In acute kidney injury, dialysis can be stopped once the kidneys recover. You can discuss the options suitable for you, including a transplant assessment, with your physician.

Hemodiafiltration is an advanced method that, in addition to conventional hemodialysis, also removes larger molecules. Our center has dialysis machines equipped with an HDF module. Your physician decides whether this method is suitable for you.