Types Of Dialysis And Which One Is Right For You

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Dialysis can feel overwhelming when you first hear the term, especially if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with kidney failure. Understanding the available treatment options gives patients control, confidence and clarity. According to nephrology experts at Orthomed Hospital — a leading kidney and dialysis care provider in Chennai — choosing the right type of dialysis depends on medical condition, lifestyle needs, and long-term health goals.
In this blog, we break down both major types of dialysis, how they work, who they are suitable for, their advantages, and important safety considerations.

What Is Dialysis?
Dialysis is a life-supporting treatment used when the kidneys cannot filter blood the way they should. The procedure removes waste, excess fluid, and toxins — functions normally performed by healthy kidneys. It helps patients manage kidney failure and maintain overall health.
There are two main types of dialysis:
Hemodialysis

Peritoneal Dialysis

Each method works differently, and choosing the right one depends on health, lifestyle, convenience, and ...
... doctor recommendations.

1. Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is the most commonly recommended form of dialysis. It involves a machine that filters the patient’s blood and removes toxins.
How It Works
Blood flows from the body to a dialysis machine through a vascular access

The machine cleans the blood using a dialysis filter (dialyzer)

Purified blood is returned to the body

Where It Is Done
Hemodialysis can be performed:
In a hospital or dialysis center

At home (for selected patients)

Timeline
Most patients require:
3 sessions per week

4 hours per session

Who Is Hemodialysis Right For?
Hemodialysis is ideal for:
Patients who prefer supervised care from nephrologists and nurses

Patients who are not medically suitable for self-treatment at home

People who are more comfortable undergoing treatment in a clinical setting

Advantages
✔ Supervised by medical professionals
✔ Highly effective blood filtration
✔ Suitable for emergency dialysis patients
Possible Challenges
Requires travel to a center (if not done at home)
Diet and fluid restrictions may be stricter
Fatigue after sessions is common for some patients

2. Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis is a more flexible alternative that patients can do at home. Instead of a machine filtering the blood outside the body, the abdominal lining (peritoneum) acts as a natural filter.
How It Works
A sterile dialysis fluid is introduced into the abdomen via a catheter

The fluid absorbs waste from the bloodstream through the peritoneum

The used fluid is later drained and replaced with fresh fluid

Where It Is Done
Usually performed at home

Offers privacy and freedom for travel

Types of Peritoneal Dialysis
There are two forms:
CAPD (Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis)

Manual exchanges 3–5 times per day

APD (Automated Peritoneal Dialysis)

Machine-assisted dialysis performed overnight during sleep

Who Is Peritoneal Dialysis Right For?
Best suited for:
Individuals who want independence and mobility

Patients living far from dialysis centers

People who prefer managing dialysis at home

Advantages
✔ Greater flexibility and convenience
✔ Can be performed during travel
✔ Less dietary restriction in some cases
Possible Challenges
Requires discipline and hygiene to avoid infection
Not recommended for patients with abdominal surgeries or hernias

Comparing Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis
Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis differ mainly in where and how they are performed. Hemodialysis is usually done in a hospital or dialysis center three times a week under full medical supervision, making it suitable for patients with severe kidney failure or those who require close monitoring. Peritoneal dialysis, on the other hand, is typically done at home — either manually throughout the day or automatically at night using a machine — giving patients more independence and flexibility for an active lifestyle or for those living in remote locations. Specialists at Orthomed Hospital in Chennai emphasize that both methods are medically effective, and the most suitable option depends on a patient’s health condition, convenience, and the recommendation of their nephrologist.

How Doctors Decide Which Dialysis Type Is Right for You
Nephrologists consider several factors before recommending dialysis type, including:
Stage of kidney failure

Age and general health

Heart condition

Previous surgeries

Infection risk

Lifestyle and work demands

Distance from dialysis centers

Support from family at home

This personalized approach ensures long-term comfort, safety, and health stability.

Diet and Lifestyle During Dialysis
Regardless of the type, dialysis patients should follow:
Low-salt and low-potassium diet

Controlled fluid intake

Balanced protein consumption

No smoking or alcohol

Regular follow-up check-ups

Proper medication routines

A kidney-friendly diet improves energy, immunity, and treatment effectiveness.

When to Call Your Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience:
Chest pain or shortness of breath

Persistent vomiting

Sudden swelling in legs or face

Severe abdominal pain

Fever or chills (risk of infection)

Final Thoughts
Dialysis is not just a treatment — it is a lifestyle adjustment. Understanding your options helps you make informed decisions for your health and comfort. Whether you choose hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, regular monitoring and the right support system are essential.
Patients seeking comprehensive kidney and dialysis care can reach out to Orthomed Hospital in Chennai for advanced treatment, expert nephrologists, and patient-centered support to manage kidney disease effectively.