Kidney Failure Treatment
Several treatments and therapies are available for kidney failure. The specific type of treatment option you need will depend on the underlying cause of your kidney failure. The most common treatments include;
Dialysis
Dialysis uses a machine to filter and purifies the blood through a specified mechanism. The machine is an artificial kidney that performs the function of purification and removal of waste products. Depending on the cause and the type of dialysis, you may be connected to a portable catheter bag or a large machine. Along with dialysis, you may need to follow a low-salt, low-potassium diet strictly.
Of note, dialysis does not cure kidney failure or improve the function of kidneys. It can, however, extend your life for 5 to 10 years if you go to regularly scheduled dialysis sessions.
Kidney transplant
Kidney transplant is another treatment option that has revolutionized the treatment of kidney failure. A transplanted kidney from a healthy donor can work normally, and you no longer need dialysis. You must take follow the same low-mineral diet and immunosuppressive drugs following surgery to prevent your body from infections and rejecting the new kidney. These drugs are of strong potency and have their own potential side effects.
Transplant surgery is not a possible treatment option for many people with kidney failure. Talk with your physician or kidney surgeon about whether you are a good candidate for kidney transplantation.
