Complications in Dialysis

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Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment, but like any medical process, it may come with certain complications. Here are some common questions and tips to help you stay informed and better prepared.

What are the Common Issues Faced by Dialysis Patients?

Anemia (Low Hemoglobin Levels)

Anemia is a frequent concern in patients undergoing hemodialysis. It occurs due to:

  • Small but repeated blood losses during dialysis and blood tests.
  • Reduced production of erythropoietin — a hormone normally released by healthy kidneys that signals the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.

How It’s Managed:

Your kidney specialist may recommend:

  • Erythropoietin (EPO) injections to stimulate red blood cell production.
  • Iron therapy (oral or intravenous) to support healthy hemoglobin levels.

Together, these treatments help improve energy levels, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall well-being.

Calcium and Phosphate Imbalance

In kidney failure, the body struggles to maintain the right levels of calcium and phosphate:

  • Calcium may leach from bones, making them weaker.
  • Phosphate builds up in the blood, as the kidneys can no longer remove it effectively.

This imbalance can lead to vascular calcification — hardening of blood vessels and soft tissues — increasing the risk of heart disease and other complications.

What You Can Do:

  • Limit foods high in phosphate (e.g., soft drinks, dairy, red meat, nuts, and packaged foods).
  • Your doctor may prescribe phosphate binders or vitamin D supplements to help restore balance.

Fluid Overload

When kidneys fail, they cannot remove excess fluid and salt from the body. This can lead to:

  • Swelling in the legs, feet, or around the eyes
  • High blood pressure
  • Shortness of breath, especially if fluid accumulates in the lungs

Managing Fluid Balance:

  • Limit fluid intake to about 2 liters per day (your doctor will guide you based on your individual needs).
  • Restrict salt intake to 5–6 grams per day to prevent fluid retention.
  • Follow your dialysis schedule consistently.

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Can dialysis affect my heart?

Yes, patients with kidney failure are at a higher risk for heart problems. This is because the kidneys and heart work closely together to regulate blood pressure, fluid, and electrolyte balance.

Common cardiac complications include:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Fluid overload, which can strain the heart
  • Left ventricular hypertrophy (thickening of heart muscles)
  • Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
  • Heart failure

What can I do to protect my heart?

  • Follow your dialysis schedule strictly
  • Limit fluid and salt intake
  • Keep blood pressure under control
  • Take your prescribed medications regularly
  • Eat a heart-healthy, kidney-safe diet
  • Get regular cardiac evaluations as advised by your nephrologist

If you’re facing challenges or have concerns beyond what’s covered here, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Kidneyfy, our team is here to guide you with the right advice, support, and care throughout your dialysis journey.