How does dialysis work?

There are five stages of Chronic Kidney Disease, or CKD, many of which can be managed before reaching kidney failure.

When it comes to treating CKD, there are several options and dialysis isn’t always necessary. In fact, you can live with kidney disease for many years without it. But if your kidneys fail, a kidney transplant or dialysis is a must.
The good news? Dialysis treatment is a potential lifesaver and may help get you back on the path to living a normal and happy life.
If your doctor recommends dialysis, here’s what you should know.

  1. Dialysis is a treatment that removes waste and excess fluid from your blood because your kidneys no longer can.
  2. There are two main types of kidney dialysis – hemodialysis, or HD, and peritoneal dialysis, PD. HD can be done at a center three times a week, while PD can be done in your home or at a center.
  3. Your designated care team can help you determine the treatment option that’s right for you and your current lifestyle.
    To learn more about treatment, consult your physician and visit DaVita.com.
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