Dialysis is an artificial elimination of wastes and excess water from the
body. Patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) and acute kidney disease need
take dialysis to decrease the high level of creatinine and other excess wastes.
And then with the effective treatment, they will get rid of dialysis and return
to normal. But some patients think they can live a normal life with dialysis,
this is completely wrong because dialysis can cause many complications and even
threaten patients’ life.
Common complications associated with the procedure include dehydration and
electrolyte imbalance. These might lead to heart problems such as angina,
hypotension, and arrhythmia if unchecked or left untreated. Infection of the
abdominal wall which leads to inflammation of tissue might also occur. One might
also develop weakening of the arterial muscles. It is possible to get meningitis
as a result of a bacterial infection.
Other forms of complication include bleeding or blood clotting at the point
where the catheter is inserted in the body. A patient might develop insomnia
which might be caused by pain, restlessness or discomfort. There are cases where
patients get seizures as a result of the procedure.
Development of complications in patients may affect how well the procedure is
carried out. Infections, blood clots, electrolyte imbalance and weakened
arterial surfaces affect the quality and benefits of the dialysis. Doctors and
patients undergoing the procedure are advised to be on the look out. Any
discomfort experienced by the patient should be reported to the doctor and
examined immediately. If this is left untreated, it might cause restricted
movement and even death to the patient.
