Dialysis

Dialysis is a medical treatment that performs the function of the kidneys when they are no longer able to work properly. The kidneys filter out waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. When the kidneys are damaged or fail, dialysis is used to perform this vital function, keeping the body in balance.

When is Dialysis Needed?

Dialysis is typically required when kidney function falls below a certain level, often defined as when the kidneys can only perform about 10-15% of their normal function. Common conditions that may lead to the need for dialysis include:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A progressive loss of kidney function over time.
• End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): The final stage of kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
• Acute Kidney Failure: Sudden, temporary loss of kidney function due to severe illness, infection, or injury.
• Diabetes and Hypertension: Two of the leading causes of kidney disease and eventual dialysis need.