Dialysis

Dialysis is a life-sustaining medical procedure designed to perform the vital functions of the kidneys when they are no longer able to adequately filter and remove waste products and excess fluids from the bloodstream. There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves circulating the patient's blood through an external machine that filters out impurities before returning the cleansed blood to the body. In contrast, peritoneal dialysis uses the peritoneal membrane lining the abdominal cavity as a natural filter. A special solution is introduced into the abdomen through a catheter, and as it absorbs waste products, it is later drained from the body. Dialysis is a crucial intervention for individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or advanced chronic kidney disease, providing a lifeline until a kidney transplant becomes available or as a long-term treatment option. While dialysis helps maintain a delicate balance in the body, it requires a significant time commitment, lifestyle adjustments, and adherence to a strict treatment regimen, underscoring the importance of ongoing support and education for those undergoing this essential therapy.

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