Kidney dialysis is a life-saving procedure that helps to keep patients alive in cases of acute or long-term renal failure. It works by removing waste and excess fluid from the bloodstream by passing blood through a filter, replacing essential minerals, cleaning accumulated toxins from the blood, and eliminating unneeded water from the body.
Hemodialysis, where a machine cycles the patient's blood out of their body, through an artificial renal system within the machine, and then back into their body; and Hemodialysis is typically done 3 times a week in a hospital setting.
peritoneal dialysis, where a special fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity surrounding the patient's organs to absorb excess waste in the bloodstream. Peritoneal dialysis can be done at home overnight or during the day.
Causes Kidney Dialysis also helps control high levels of electrolytes in the body, preventing further damage to the kidneys or other organs. Additionally, it can help stabilise vital organ functions to prevent additional medical complications associated with kidney failure, such as anaemia or infection.
Dialysis symptoms vary depending on the stage of kidney failure and the patient’s overall condition. Common symptoms experienced by those undergoing dialysis are nausea and vomiting, fatigue, low blood pressure, fever, poor appetite and a feeling of general unease. Dialysis may also be accompanied by complications such as muscle cramps, chest pain, constipation or diarrhoea, itching and headaches.
The primary aim of Ayurvedic treatment of kidney dialysis is to reduce the amount of toxins in the body and improve the efficiency of the body’s cleansing systems. This includes the liver, kidneys, intestines, and lymphatic system. Herbal remedies are commonly used to support the functioning of these organs. Herbs such as Punarnava, Varun, Kutki, and Rakta-panchmi are frequently prescribed
Ayurvedic medicines have long been used to treat dialysis complications. By addressing underlying imbalances in the body, such medicines can help manage side effects from dialysis treatments such as edema, fatigue, anemia and constipation. Ayurveda utilizes natural compounds to improve renal function, deliver nutrition and safeguard against further damage
Patients on dialysis require special attention to their diet, as certain foods can affect kidney function and other body systems. Dialysis patients should focus on a balanced eating plan with plenty of vegetables, fruits, lean protein sources, and whole grains. Eating low-sodium foods is essential for individuals on dialysis; reducing dietary salt intake may help reduce fluid buildup between treatments. Additionally, limiting processed or deep-fried foods will help maintain a healthy diet.
Dialysis patients should focus on exercises that increase strength and flexibility as much as possible. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, stair climbing and light strength training with weights or bands, are particularly beneficial for maintaining bone density. Low-impact aerobics classes can also be beneficial, while swimming and water aerobics can help endurance without placing excessive stress on the body.
