Dialysis is a life-saving medical procedure that takes over the function of the kidneys when they can no longer remove waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood. It helps maintain a safe level of certain chemicals in the body like potassium, sodium, and bicarbonate, and controls blood pressure in patients with kidney failure.

You can visit the nearest AINU hospital or check our official website to learn about:

• Different types of dialysis offered
• Procedure details
• Duration and frequency
• Safety protocols
• Dialysis treatment costs (which may vary based on the type and duration of treatment)

For personalized assistance, you can also book a consultation with one of our nephrologists.

There are two main types of dialysis:

• • • Hemodialysis (HD): Blood is filtered through a dialysis machine outside the body and returned clean.
    • Peritoneal Dialysis (PD): The blood is cleaned inside the body using the peritoneal membrane and a special dialysis fluid.

At AINU Hospitals

, we also offer:
• Hemodiafiltration (HDF): Advanced form of HD for deeper toxin removal.
• Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT): Dialysis support for critically ill ICU patients.

Dialysis is required when the kidneys lose about 85–90% of their function (end-stage renal disease or ESRD). Patients with conditions such as:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Acute kidney injury (AKI)
• Diabetic nephropathy
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Glomerulonephritis (may need dialysis as part of long-term or temporary treatment)

Hemodialysis works by drawing blood out of the body, filtering it through a dialyzer (artificial kidney), and returning the clean blood back into the body. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) to filter waste from the blood with the help of a dialysis fluid. Both methods help balance electrolytes, remove waste, and reduce fluid buildup in patients with kidney failure.

Many patients live on dialysis for 5 to 10 years or more, depending on their overall health, age, and adherence to treatment. Some live even longer with proper care. Kidney transplantation is also an option for suitable candidates, which can significantly improve both survival and quality of life.

While dialysis is generally safe, some potential risks and side effects include:

• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Fatigue or weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea or vomiting
• Risk of infection (especially with peritoneal dialysis)
• Fluid overload or imbalance
• Access site complications (in hemodialysis)

Recommended foods for dialysis patients:

• High-quality proteins (eggs, lean meat, fish)
• Fresh fruits (low potassium, like apples and berries)
• Vegetables (low potassium ones like cabbage, cauliflower)
• White rice, white bread
• Unsalted snacks

Recommended foods for dialysis patients:

• High-potassium fruits (bananas, oranges, avocados)
• High-phosphorus foods (nuts, seeds, dairy, dark sodas)
• Salty or processed foods
• Excess fluid intake (especially soups, juices, ice)

Your diet should be supervised by a renal dietitian to match your type of dialysis and lab values.