There
are two types of dialysis available today - and both can help you live a healthier
life without working kidneys.
Something
to remember: no decision is a final decision. Your dialysis needs may change as
time goes by. And if you are already living with one type of dialysis, you may
be a candidate for another and not know it. Talk to your doctor about any questions
or concerns you have.
If
you are able to make a dialysis treatment choice, you should weigh your options
carefully. Give a lot of thought to your current lifestyle. You will want a dialysis
treatment that disrupts your lifestyle as little as possible. This summary of
the dialysis treatment options may help you decide.
| Hemodialysis |
| Positives |
Possible Negatives |
| Staff
performs treatment (center) | Requires
travel to a center |
| Regular
contact with people in the center | Fixed
treatment schedule |
| Three
times per week | Requires
a partner for home hemodialysis |
|
No external access
required | Permanent
internal access |
| No
equipment/supplies at home | Two
needle sticks for each treatment |
|
Travel not required
for home hemodialysis | Diet
and fluid restricted |
|
| Some
risk of infection |
| Peritoneal
Dialysis |
| Positives |
Possible Negatives |
| Patient
involved in self-care | Four
exchanges per day |
| Control
over schedule/freedom | Permanent
external catheter |
| Once
a month clinic visits | Some
risk of infection |
| No
needles | Potential
weight gain |
| More
steady physical condition | Supplies
stored at home |
| Less
restricted diet | Body
image change |
