The process of hemodialysis

Hemodialysis is a life-saving procedure that provides necessary blood purification for the body in cases of reduced kidney function. The kidneys play a key role in the removal of toxins, maintaining the balance of water and salts, and regulating blood pH levels. When the kidneys are unable to perform these tasks, hemodialysis may be the only solution for removing toxins and restoring fluid balance in the body.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease, which affects an increasing number of people, often develops silently and without symptoms. The disease is frequently discovered only during routine screening tests, as it usually does not present with pain. However, a decline in kidney function can have serious consequences, making it important for patients to recognize the problem in a timely manner. The process of hemodialysis mimics kidney function and is a significant achievement of modern medicine that has saved many patients’ lives.

The Dialysis Process

The essence of the dialysis procedure is that the patient’s blood flows through an artificial filter that removes toxins and excess fluid before returning to the bloodstream. This process is essential for chronic kidney patients since their kidneys can no longer perform their cleansing duties.

During hemodialysis, blood is drawn from the patient’s vein, usually from an arm vein. Before starting the procedure, a minor surgical intervention is required to create a vascular access point between a vein and an artery. This fistula allows for higher pressure and faster blood flow, which is crucial for effective purification. The fistula can be located in the elbow area, on the arm, or even on the thigh.

During hemodialysis, blood flows through a dialysis machine, where purification occurs with the help of a semi-permeable membrane. Through this membrane, toxins such as excess fluids and waste products are removed, while vital substances and blood cells remain in the bloodstream. Typically, 60-70 liters of blood pass through the machine during the procedure, allowing the patient’s total blood volume to return to normal circulation multiple times.

Hemodialysis treatments generally occur three times a week, with each treatment lasting at least four hours. The treatment can be performed at a dialysis center or at home if the patient’s condition allows it. It is important to note that hemodialysis cannot fully replace kidney functions, so patients must follow a strict diet to maintain their health.

Diet for Dialysis Patients

The diet of dialysis patients is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment. While hemodialysis partially replaces kidney functions, it cannot substitute for hormonal and other endocrine functions. Therefore, patients need to pay attention to their nutrition to avoid overloading their bodies and accumulating toxins.

When planning the diet, it is essential to consider fluid intake, salt and protein consumption, as well as the amounts of potassium and phosphorus. Proper nutrition helps maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, thereby reducing the risk of complications. Dialysis patients typically require a lower-protein diet, as some proteins are also removed from the blood during dialysis.

Additionally, patients should avoid high-potassium foods, such as bananas, avocados, and potatoes, as elevated potassium levels can lead to serious heart problems. Phosphorus is also a critical factor, as high-phosphorus foods, such as dairy products and processed foods, can cause issues.

Adhering to the diet associated with hemodialysis not only promotes the health of patients but also contributes to maximizing the effectiveness of the treatment. Proper nutrition, regular medical check-ups, and necessary medications together help ensure that the quality of life for dialysis patients remains as high as possible.