The Rogosin Institute is one of the pre-eminent dialysis providers in the tri-state area, offering every available dialysis option for our patients, including peritoneal dialysis and home hemodialysis in addition to traditional in-center hemodialysis. We work with our patients to find a dialysis option that works best for them to provide the best quality of life.
Dialysis is a treatment for end stage kidney disease that removes waste and extra fluid from the blood because the kidneys can no longer do this and kidney transplant is not an immediate option. Rogosin Institute has ten dialysis centers in the metropolitan area and is the largest not-for-profit kidney failure dialysis provider in the US. We provide training and education for all treatment options so that patients can maintain the best possible quality of life during and after dialysis.
Why Do I Need Dialysis Treatment?
The purpose of dialysis is to take over kidney functions when the kidneys have been damaged to the point at which they no longer remove excess fluid and wastes from the bloodstream. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, wastes such as creatinine and nitrogen accumulate in the bloodstream. The presence of these wastes often makes a person feel ill and weak. By lending functionality to the kidneys, dialysis brings relief from these and other symptoms related to kidney damage. This is the primary benefit of treatment.
There are different types of dialysis treatments and specific advantages to each. Patients are informed regarding their options, what to expect, and whether or not they may be able to change their treatment type once they have started dialysis.
Who Benefits From Dialysis Treatment?
Patients with chronic kidney disease may reach a time when dialysis or a kidney transplant is necessary. Kidney failure causes a continual buildup of fluid and wastes in the blood, requiring medical intervention. Dialysis may begin even before symptoms develop or when lab tests indicate poor kidney function. Some doctors and patients decide to begin dialysis while kidney function is still good, as they may decrease the risk of hospitalizations related to kidney failure.
When dialysis is recommended, patients can obtain the greatest benefit by committing both to their treatment plan and also to lifestyle choices such as:
- Mindfulness about foods and beverages while on dialysis. Often, a diet that regulates salt, protein, and sugar is recommended.
- Exercising regularly based on physician recommendations.
- Avoiding harmful substances such as tobacco, drugs, and alcohol.
What Are The Different Dialysis Treatment Options?
Two kinds of dialysis are commonly performed at Rogosin:
Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis is conducted using an abdominal catheter. In this treatment, the catheter is inserted into the peritoneum, the lining of the abdomen. This tissue filters and removes waste products from the blood. Peritoneal dialysis allows fluid and filtered waste products to drain at set times.
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis involves the insertion of two different needles into the arm through an access point. Each needle attaches to a flexible tube that then connects to the dialysis machine. The machine (dialyzer) filters a few ounces of blood at a time through one needle. The wastes and fluids are cleansed via dialysate before returning via the second tube.
What Type of Dialysis Can be Performed at Home?
Dialysis patients have a choice in their home treatments. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) and home hemodialysis (with or without at partner) are available at Rogosin. Now, newer technology has made PD and home hemodialysis easier to learn and perform. A growing number of patients/people with end stage renal disease prefer home dialysis because of the clinical benefits and lifestyle advantages.
Is Dialysis Painful?
Typically, the only pain associated with dialysis treatment is the insertion of the needle or catheter into the arm or abdomen. Discomfort is temporary and often an aspect of treatment that patients simply get used to over time.
Is Dialysis Safe?
Dialysis provides necessary intervention for patients in kidney failure. Without treatment, life expectancy is diminished. Patients who undergo dialysis are at risk for infection related to the frequent use of needles and catheters and the depression of the immune system caused by kidney disease. Dialysis providers follow strict guidelines to reduce infection risks.
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How will I feel during and after my dialysis treatments?
During or after dialysis, patients may experience side effects such as:
- Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps may occur as fluid is extracted from the body. These are also common symptoms of kidney disease, so can be increased as a result of treatment.
- Low blood pressure may occur when too much fluid weight is gained in between treatment, then removed during dialysis. This side effect can be managed by being careful to follow fluid intake recommendations and dietary restrictions such as avoiding salt.
- Muscle cramps and restless leg syndrome.
- Dry or itchy skin may result from potassium or phosphorus accumulation in the body.
In most cases, unpleasant side effects of dialysis can be managed with administration strategies and dietary changes. Unless a patient is in poor health due to reasons aside from kidney failure, dialysis should help them feel better.
Can I Still Work During Dialysis Treatments?
It is possible to work while undergoing dialysis treatments, yes. This may be especially true when a patient chooses a type of dialysis that can be administered at home several days a week. There may be several steps to take to ensure that work can continue during treatment or after a short break. Patients may talk to their care provider as well as their employer to ensure proper time off, leave benefits, and scheduling can be arranged.
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