Dialysis is a procedure that helps filter and clean your blood when your kidneys are unable to do so effectively.
There are two types of dialysis.
Hemodialysis involves the use of a dialysis machine to filter your blood. You may have this treatment at a dialysis center or at your home.
Peritoneal dialysis does not require a machine, but instead uses the tissue already in your body to filter your blood. It requires the placement of a catheter into your abdomen. Peritoneal dialysis is typically done at home.
A person may require dialysis when their kidneys are not able to filter their blood effectively due to kidney damage.
Reasons for kidney damage include:
- sudden kidney injury or illness: If you have a sudden injury or illness affecting your kidneys, you might require dialysis until your kidneys have healed.
- chronic kidney disease (CKD): If you have CKD, dialysis may be needed long term. Typically, you’ll have stage 4 CKD when dialysis is considered.
If you cannot or do not want to have dialysis, then you may have other options.
You can treat the symptoms and reduce some complications you may be at risk of as a result of kidney damage.
Your doctor might suggest medications to help treat symptoms such as itchy skin, manage your blood pressure, and help prevent infections.
Another option is a kidney transplant. This is often discussed if your condition has reached stage 4 CKD.
Explore Healthline’s dedicated hub covering everything you need to know about navigating dialysis.