Dialysis
Kidneys that are functioning prevent the build-up of waste, water, and many other impurities in the body. They also help keep blood pressure at a normal range while regulating the chemical elements in your blood, such as potassium and sodium. The organs also activate a specific vitamin D form, which improves calcium absorption. If the kidneys cannot perform their intended functions, salt and waste products can accumulate, damage organs, and lead to various conditions, such as rhabdomyolysis.
Dialysis helps by performing the kidneys’ functions if they fail. It involves the purification and filtration of the blood via a machine, ensuring that all fluids and chemicals in the body are balanced. There are different dialysis types, with each designed to perform specific functions. However, while dialysis can keep an individual alive, it’s not without risks. These risks include lowered blood pressure, anemia, bacteremia, irregular heartbeat, hernia, anaphylaxis, fever, bone weakening, elevated blood sugar, infection, and electrolyte disturbances.
In case dialysis is too costly and time-consuming, alternatives are available, especially for those with acute kidney problems. For example, the hormone erythropoietin or EPO can be injected once a week for those whose kidneys are underperforming.
