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Your blood is sent through a Dialysis machine that filters away waste products, and then the clean blood is returned to your body. Hemodialysis is usually performed at a dialysis center three times per week for 3 to 4 hours.
To undergo dialysis, AV fistula/ shunt needs to be made on the arm, it is a vascular surgery to make connection between artery and vein.
Hemodialysis carries some disadvantages like:
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Psychological problems: Depression, altered self-image |
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Confusion, seizures/ fits |
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A-V fistula- takes months to develop |
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Fistula failure, infection. |
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Low blood pressure during and after dialysis |
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Long term Dialysis can cause: memory loss (dementia), bone disease (osteomalacia) |
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Cost of dialysis, travel to the center, loss of work etc. |
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Allergic reactions, transmission of diseases. |
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Blood thinning drugs (Heparin) used during dialysis can cause: hemorrhages, bleeding |
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