Understanding Dialysis: What It Is, Types Of Dialysis, And What To Expect

Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for patients with advanced kidney disease or kidney failure. If you or a loved one has been told you may need dialysis, it’s normal to have questions.

This guide answers the most common questions about dialysis, including what dialysis is, why it is needed, types of dialysis, and what to expect during treatment.

A] What Is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a medical treatment that performs the job of your kidneys when they are no longer able to function properly or sufficiently.

Our Healthy kidneys:

• Remove waste and toxins from the blood
• Remove extra fluid
• Maintain electrolyte balance, e.g., sodium, potassium, calcium, bicarbonate

When kidney function drops significantly, dialysis helps clean the blood and maintain balance in the body.

B] Why Do I Need Dialysis?

Dialysis is usually needed when kidney function falls to about 10–15% of normal, also known as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). When dialysis is needed, it is usually a life-sustaining treatment.

Common causes of dialysis include:

• Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Long standing Diabetes/ diabetic kidney disease
• Long standing High blood pressure/ hypertensive kidney disease
• Long-standing other kidney conditions, such as structural filter problems, such as glomerulonephritis.

Without dialysis, waste and fluid buildup in the body can become life-threatening.

C] How Does Dialysis Work?

Many patients ask, “How does dialysis work?”

Dialysis removes waste, toxins, and extra fluid from your blood using either:

• A dialysis machine (hemodialysis) with an external blood filter pump.
• Your body’s abdominal lining (peritoneal membrane), which functions as the body’s own alternative filter that can replace the kidneys. This is called peritoneal dialysis.

Both types of dialysis help:

• Control fluid levels
• Balance electrolytes like potassium

D] What Are The Different Types Of Dialysis?

There are two main types of dialysis, along with a third type used in hospital settings.

1. Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis is the most common type of dialysis treatment.

• Blood is removed through vascular access (usually in the arm)
• A dialysis machine filters the blood using an external
• Clean blood is returned to the body

What to expect:

• Typically done 3 times per week
• Each session lasts about 3–5 hours
• Performed in a dialysis center or at home

Patients looking for hemodialysis services in Longview and the surrounding East Texas area can receive care at the local dialysis center with kidney care provided by the kidney doctors at East Texas Kidney Specialists.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)

Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen to filter blood naturally.

• A dialysis fluid is placed into the abdomen using a machine called the cycler.
• It absorbs waste and extra fluid
• The fluid is then drained and replaced
• This process is done 4 to 6 times every night, personalized to the patient’s individualized needs.

What to expect:

• Done daily (or nightly)at home
• Can be performed during the day or overnight
• Offers more independence and flexibility

Patients interested in peritoneal dialysis in Longview, or surrounding East Texas areas, should discuss eligibility with their Kidney doctors at East Texas Kidney Specialists. ETKS takes pride in its home and peritoneal dialysis program, which is one of the biggest programs in Texas, and maintains the highest quality standards enforced by CMS and other governing bodies.

3. Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT)

• Used in critically ill patients in the hospital (ICU)
• Provides slow, continuous dialysis over 24 hours
• Not typically used for outpatient dialysis patients

E] Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What Happens Once I Start Dialysis?

Starting dialysis can feel overwhelming, but most patients adjust with time. You will have a great team to care for you, including your Nephrologist, dialysis nurse, dialysis tech, your social worker, and dietitian.

During treatment:

• You will be connected to a dialysis machine (or perform exchanges for PD)
• Your care team monitors your condition closely
• You can rest, read, or watch TV during treatment

Some patients may experience:

• Fatigue
• Muscle cramps
• Low blood pressure

These side effects are common and manageable with proper care.

2. Will I Feel Better After Starting Dialysis?

Many patients feel better after starting dialysis because:

• Waste and toxins are removed
• Fluid overload improves
• Symptoms like nausea and shortness of breath decrease

It may take a few weeks to fully adjust to treatments.

3. Once I Start Dialysis, Will I Ever Come Off Dialysis?

This depends on the cause of kidney failure.

• Acute kidney injury (temporary): dialysis may be stopped if kidney function recovers
• Chronic kidney disease (permanent): dialysis is usually long-term unless you receive a kidney transplant

Your nephrologist will guide you based on your condition.

4. How Will Dialysis Affect My Daily Life?

Dialysis requires lifestyle adjustments, but many patients continue to live active lives.

You may need to:

• Follow a kidney-friendly diet
• Limit fluid intake
• Take medications regularly
• Attend all dialysis treatments

With proper care, many patients continue working, traveling, and spending time with family.

5. How Can I Stay Healthy On Dialysis?

To stay healthy on dialysis:

• Do not miss treatments
• Follow dietary and fluid recommendations
• Manage diabetes and blood pressure
• Stay physically active as tolerated

Ongoing care with a nephrologist in Longview, TX (or your local area) is essential for the best outcomes.

6. Dialysis Care And Support In Longview, TX

At East Texas Kidney Specialists, we provide:

• Comprehensive dialysis care
• Patient education and support
• Individualized treatment plans
• Regular patient visits to the dialysis centers.
• Plan of care meetings which option for patient and family participation.

Our goal is to help patients live healthier, more comfortable lives while on dialysis.

7. When Should I See A Kidney Specialist?

If you have:

• Advanced chronic kidney disease
• Symptoms of kidney failure
• Concerns about dialysis

Early evaluation by a nephrologist can help you plan and start treatment at the right time.

Conclusion

Dialysis is a critical treatment for kidney failure, and understanding your options can make the process less overwhelming.

With the right care, education, and support, many patients on dialysis continue to live full and meaningful lives.

If you have questions about dialysis or need expert kidney care, contact East Texas Kidney Specialists in Longview, TX, today.