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Dialysis

Dialysis Center Sign

Our outpatient dialysis unit is open Monday - Friday. We have two shifts each day.

First shift: 5 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Second shift: 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

What Is Dialysis?
Dialysis is a treatment that replaces some functions of healthy kidneys. It’s needed when kidneys lose about 85–90% of function (end-stage kidney failure) and can no longer support the body.

Meet dialysis patient Donald Hagen and read about his second chance at life.


What Does Dialysis Do?
Dialysis helps keep your body in balance by:

  • Removing waste, salt, and excess water

  • Maintaining safe levels of chemicals like potassium, sodium, and bicarbonate

Is Kidney Failure Permanent?
Not always. Acute kidney injuries may recover, and dialysis may only be temporary.
In chronic or end-stage kidney failure, kidneys don’t improve, and long-term dialysis or a transplant is needed.

Where Is Dialysis Done?
Dialysis can be done at:

  • A hospital

  • A dialysis center

  • At home

Your doctor will help decide the best option for you.

Types of Dialysis
There are two main types:

  1. Hemodialysis

  2. Peritoneal Dialysis

Hemodialysis

Uses a machine (hemodialyzer) to clean your blood. A minor surgery is done to create access to your blood vessels via:

  • Fistula: Joining an artery and vein

  • Graft: Artificial connection if veins aren't suitable

  • Catheter: A temporary or long-term tube in a neck vein

Treatment Time: About 4 hours, 3 times a week—depending on your size, kidney function, fluid buildup, and type of dialyzer.

Peritoneal Dialysis

Cleans your blood inside your body using the lining of your abdomen. A catheter is surgically placed in your belly.

Two main types:

  • CAPD (Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis):

    • Done manually, 4–5 times/day

    • No machine needed

    • You can go about daily activities during treatment

  • CCPD (Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis):

    • Uses a machine (cycler)

    • Performed at night while you sleep

Does Dialysis Cure Kidney Disease?
No. It replaces kidney function but does not cure kidney disease. Dialysis is needed for life unless you receive a kidney transplant.

Is Hemodialysis Painful?
You may feel discomfort from needle insertion. The treatment is usually painless, though some may feel sick or cramp due to low blood pressure—often from excess salt/fluid in the diet.

History of Dialysis

  • Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis began in the 1940s

  • Routine treatment started in 1960

  • CAPD began in 1976
    Thousands have benefited from these treatments.

How Long Can You Live on Dialysis?
Some people on dialysis live as long as those without kidney failure, though this varies by individual health and care.

Is Dialysis Expensive?
Yes, but most patients receive 80% coverage from the federal government. Private insurance or state aid may help cover the rest.

Life on Dialysis

  • Feel Normal?
    Many patients live normal lives, aside from time spent on treatment. Dialysis often improves how you feel.

  • Diet?
    Yes. You may need to follow a special diet and limit fluids. This varies by dialysis type.

  • Travel?
    Yes. Dialysis is available across the U.S. and abroad. You must schedule treatments ahead of time.

  • Work?
    Many people return to work after adjusting to dialysis. Some may need to modify job duties if physically demanding.

Source: National Kidney Foundation