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Dialysis is a life-preserving treatment that takes over the functions performed by our kidneys when the Kidneys are no longer able to perform their job of cleaning our blood and making toxin-rich urine.
Dialysis filters act as external filtering devices when the kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste products or remove excess fluid and toxins from the blood. Dialysis is the treatment of end-stage kidney failure and sometimes short-term acute kidney failure.
East Texas Kidney Specialists provides care for patients on dialysis in Longview, Gilmer, Marshall, Henderson, Kilgore, and Shreveport areas. Our team makes regular and frequent visits to the dialysis units to deliver safe, effective, and patient-centered care for patients receiving dialysis. The physicians at East Texas Kidney Specialists review monthly labs, manage dialysis prescriptions, blood pressure medications, and anemia management to provide personalized care for our patients.
A] What Is Dialysis?
Dialysis is the treatment for end-stage kidney disease, where a patient’s kidneys are no longer able to perform the toxin removal, fluid management, and other functions. The process of dialysis uses an external filter to clean the blood and manage fluid. It maintains and restores electrolyte balance in the body. Dialysis is a life-sustaining procedure that aims are providing better quality of life despite severely reduced kidney function.
B] Types of Dialysis:
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis uses a machine to filter the blood. This treatment is available both in the dialysis centers and in home settings. In-center dialysis is supervised by our clinical team, while home hemodialysis is performed by the patient and their care partner in the comfort of their home.
Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis uses the abdominal lining (peritoneum) as a natural filter. This is a bloodless dialysis that is done through a small, pipe-like cannula that stays inserted in the abdominal cavity. This type of dialysis is done at home. Common subtypes of peritoneal dialysis are: Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) and Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD), which provide patients more control and independence.
Our nephrologists evaluate each patient to determine the dialysis option that best matches their medical needs and lifestyle.
C] Which Patients Require Dialysis?
End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD)
Patients with ESKD require dialysis once kidney function drops below approximately 15 percent. Dialysis replaces many, but not all, functions of the kidneys, helping patients survive and manage symptoms.
Chronic Kidney Disease Progression
As chronic kidney disease worsens, dialysis may be needed to prevent complications such as fluid overload and toxin buildup.
Short-Term Vs. Long-Term Dialysis
Some patients require dialysis only during a temporary illness. Others depend on dialysis for life, based on the severity and reversibility of kidney disease or the possibility of receiving a transplant.
Receive expert dialysis care tailored to your health.
Contact East Texas Kidney Specialists for compassionate services at trusted dialysis treatment centers.
D] Advantages Of Dialysis Treatment
Dialysis improves both survival and quality of life. It reduces symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and discomfort caused by toxin buildup. It also supports heart health, helps manage blood pressure, and enables patients to continue daily activities with greater ease.
E] Physicians And Providers Play A Pivotal Role In The Care Of Our Dialysis Population Through:
- Individualized Care Plans: suitable for every patient’s needs.
- State of the art technology and expertise to ensure safe and effective dialysis.
- Collaborative approach: our care providers collaborate with other team members such as dietitians, patient care techs, social workers, and nurses to provide a multifaceted approach to patient care.
F] Dialysis Aftercare & Lifestyle Support
Dietary Recommendations
We provide counseling and medications to improve the overall dietary quality of our patients, focusing on high-quality proteins and controlled amounts of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.
Fluid Management
Patients are advised to maintain fluid balance between treatments, preventing swelling and blood pressure issues.
Counseling And Support Services
Emotional and family support, in collaboration with social workers and care coordinators help patients and caregivers navigate through these difficult times.
G] Why Choose East Texas Kidney Specialists for Dialysis?
Experienced Nephrologists
Our board-certified kidney doctors have decades of experience and reputations for excellence across East Texas.
Comprehensive Kidney Care
From diagnosis to ongoing dialysis services, we offer coordinated care in one convenient location.
Patient-Centered Services
Comfort, education, and individual support are at the heart of our approach.
For more details, consider scheduling an appointment with us.
FAQs For Dialysis Treatment in East Texas
What Does Dialysis Do?
Dialysis removes waste products and excess fluid from the blood, using either a machine or the natural lining of the abdomen.
How Long Does Dialysis Take?
Treatments typically last 3–5 hours, depending on the type of dialysis and patient needs.
Can I Do Dialysis In The Comfort Of My Home?
Yes, for appropriate patient populations, dialysis can be done in the center as well as in the comfort of your home.
How Do I Determine What Type Of Dialysis Will Be Most Suitable For Me?
Your kidney doctor will assess your situation and refer you to dialysis modality education, where you and your family can decide which type of dialysis is most appropriate for you, with input from your Kidney Doctor.
Does Dialysis Substitute For All Kidney Function?
Dialysis supplements kidney function but does not fully substitute for all of the kidney’s functions.