Kidney Dialysis: What It Is, When You Need It, and How It Works

Learn everything about kidney dialysis — what it is, when it's needed, types of dialysis, and how it helps manage kidney failure. Discover expert care options in Mumbai. ...

July 24, 2025

Kidney Dialysis: What It Is, When You Need It, and How It Works

Kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body’s internal balance by filtering waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood. But when the kidneys fail or stop functioning properly, this waste builds up and can become life-threatening. That’s where kidney dialysis comes in — a life-saving medical procedure that performs the function of your kidneys when they can no longer do it on their own.

At Prabhakar Bhurke Nephrology, Urology & Gynaecology Fertility Clinic, we offer advanced and compassionate dialysis care to support patients with kidney failure. In this blog post, we’ll explore what kidney dialysis is, who needs it, the different types of dialysis, and what to expect from treatment.

What Is Kidney Dialysis?

Kidney dialysis is a medical treatment that replicates some functions of healthy kidneys. It removes waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood when your kidneys can no longer perform these tasks naturally.

Dialysis becomes necessary when a person loses 85–90% of their kidney function, typically due to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney failure. Without dialysis or a kidney transplant, severe kidney failure can lead to death.

Who Needs Dialysis?

Dialysis is recommended for patients who experience:

End-stage kidney disease (ESKD)
Acute kidney failure (temporary loss of kidney function)
Symptoms of kidney failure such as:
- Severe fluid retention
- High levels of toxins in the blood
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue and weakness
- Confusion or decreased alertness

A nephrologist evaluates your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to determine how well your kidneys are working and if dialysis is necessary.

Types of Kidney Dialysis

There are two main types of dialysis:

1. Hemodialysis (HD):

Performed in a dialysis center or hospital
A machine filters the blood through a dialyzer (artificial kidney)
Usually done 3 times a week, 3–5 hours per session
A vascular access point is created (fistula, graft, or catheter)

2. Peritoneal Dialysis (PD):

Done at home by the patient or caregiver
Uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) to filter blood
A cleansing fluid (dialysate) is infused into the abdomen through a catheter and later drained
Two types:
- Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD): Performed manually throughout the day
- Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD): Performed overnight using a machine

Your nephrologist will help decide which method is best for you based on your medical condition, lifestyle, and preferences.

What to Expect During Dialysis Treatment

While dialysis doesn’t cure kidney disease, it helps you feel better and live longer by performing vital filtration tasks. During the treatment, you may experience:

Slight fatigue after sessions (especially with hemodialysis)
Dietary and fluid restrictions
Regular blood tests and follow-ups
Emotional and physical adjustments to the routine

Support from healthcare professionals, dietitians, and family plays an important role in managing your dialysis journey.

Risks and Side Effects

Dialysis is generally safe, but potential complications include:

Infection at the access site
Low blood pressure (especially during HD)
Muscle cramps
Nausea or vomiting
Hernias (in PD)

Regular monitoring and good hygiene practices help minimize risks.

Expert Dialysis Care in Mumbai

At Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic, we offer:

✅ Advanced dialysis machines
✅ Personalized treatment plans
✅ 24/7 support by appointment
✅ In-clinic, home, and video consultations
✅ Led by Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, Nephrology Specialist with expertise in kidney failure management

With branches at Lokhandwala, Andheri West and Borivali West, our goal is to deliver accessible, compassionate, and affordable dialysis care to every patient.

Conclusion

Kidney dialysis is not the end — it’s a new beginning. With the right treatment and support, many patients on dialysis lead active, fulfilling lives. Whether you're newly diagnosed or exploring dialysis options, we're here to guide you every step of the way.