According to the National Kidney Foundation, dialysis and kidney transplantation are the two main treatment options for end-stage renal disease. End-stage renal disease or renal failure is caused by failed kidneys that no longer remove wastes and extra fluids from the body. Treatments using diet and medications help patients with end stage renal disease feel better.
Hemodialysis
Dialysis treatment includes 2 types"hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Clinicians help patients determine which type of end-stage renal disease treatment is most suitable for them. Hemodialysis treatment filters wastes and excess fluid from the blood using a machine. Patients on hemodialysis treatment usually have their treatment at a dialysis clinic or a hospital three times a week. Each treatment lasts from 3 to 5 hours. Patients may also opt for home hemodialysis where a care partner helps with the process.
Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis filters blood inside the abdomen or belly of the person who needs it. The lining of the abdomen, called the peritoneal membrane, filters the blood of wastes and extra fluids. During the treatment, a cleansing solution is passed into the abdomen through a tube, which initially requires minor surgery. Wastes and excess fluid pass from the blood through the peritoneal membrane into the cleansing solution. The cleansing solution, which now contains the patient's excess wastes and fluids is then drained. This process can take several hours and can be done at home.
Kidney Transplantation
Kidney transplantation is an alternative option to dialysis. A transplanted kidney from one person to another can do the work of two failed kidneys. The transplanted kidney is normally donated. After a kidney transplant, anti-rejection medications are required to prevent the patient from rejecting the new kidney. It takes about three hours on average to do a kidney transplant operation. Recovery in the hospital takes about five to seven days. After the transplant, the patient will need to take anti-rejection medications.
Diet
Diet is a crucial part of the treatment plan for end-stage renal disease. According to the the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, renal dietitians help patients choose the appropriate food that will make them feel better. The kidneys control the levels of minerals and hormones such as phosphorus, calcium, potassium and vitamin D. Patient intake of foods containing these things should be monitored. Too much or too little can cause serious health issues to patients with end stage renal disease. Renal dietitians help patients find the right balance.
Medications
Medication intake for end-stage renal disease patients normally includes blood pressure medications, phosphorus-lowering medications, anemia medications, iron supplements and vitamins. Medication intake depends on the particular patient. However, by the time a patient reaches end-stage renal disease they normally are on multiple medications to control the multiple disorders caused by failed kidneys.
