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What Is Dialysis, and When Is It Needed for Kidney Failure?
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Endocrinological Disorders
Question #15332
155 days ago
168

What Is Dialysis, and When Is It Needed for Kidney Failure? - #15332

Joshua

I recently learned about dialysis, and I was curious about how it works and when it becomes necessary. From what I understand, dialysis is a treatment that helps remove waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys stop functioning properly. But at what stage of kidney disease does a person need to start dialysis? I read that there are two main types of dialysis—Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis. What is the difference between these methods, and how do doctors decide which one is best for a patient? One thing that concerns me is that dialysis is a lifelong process for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Are there any ways to reverse kidney damage naturally before reaching the stage where dialysis is required? Are there any Ayurvedic treatments or dietary changes that can help support kidney function and reduce dependence on dialysis? I’ve heard that Punarnava, Gokshura, and Varuna are beneficial for kidney health and detoxification—do these actually work? If anyone has undergone dialysis, what was your experience like? Did it improve energy levels and overall health, and how did you adjust to the treatment?

Dialysis
Kidney failure treatment
Hemodialysis
Peritoneal dialysis
Ayurveda for kidney health
Kidney disease management
Renal function support
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Namaste, Dialysis is a treatment for removing waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys can no longer function effectively. It becomes necessary when kidney function drops to around 10-15% of normal, typically in Stage 4 or Stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD). There are two main types of dialysis: Hemodialysis: Involves filtering the blood through a machine outside the body. It’s usually done in a clinic, 3 times a week. Peritoneal Dialysis: Uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) to filter blood inside the body. This can be done at home. Doctors decide based on factors like the patient’s overall health, lifestyle, and access to dialysis facilities. Hemodialysis is more common, but peritoneal dialysis can offer more flexibility. While dialysis can be lifelong, kidney damage can sometimes be managed or even reversed in early stages of CKD through lifestyle changes and Ayurvedic support. Herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, and Varuna are known to promote kidney health, reduce inflammation, and detoxify the kidneys. They support kidney function, but significant damage may still require medical intervention. Dietary changes such as reducing salt, controlling protein intake, and eating foods that support kidney health (like cranberries, turmeric, and ginger) can also help. For those undergoing dialysis, the process can improve energy levels and overall health by removing toxins. Adjusting to dialysis often involves lifestyle changes, but it can significantly enhance quality of life when managed well.
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Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
152 days ago
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Dialysis becomes necessary when the kidneys can no longer perform their critical functions, typically when kidney function falls below 15% of normal. At this point, either Hemodialysis or Peritoneal Dialysis is used to filter waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. Hemodialysis involves using a machine to filter the blood outside the body, while Peritoneal Dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen as a filter. The choice of dialysis depends on factors like the patient's health, lifestyle, and personal preferences. In Ayurveda, herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, and Varuna are known to support kidney function and help with detoxification, potentially reducing the need for dialysis by improving kidney health. Additionally, a kidney-friendly diet and maintaining hydration, reducing processed foods, and managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can play a role in preventing further kidney damage. However, once kidney damage reaches an advanced stage, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be unavoidable.
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Dialysis essentially steps in when kidneys can't do their job, usually in later stages of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). The usual trigger for dialysis is when kidney function drops below 10-15% of normal, although symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or lab results showing high waste levels can dictate the start too. There are indeed two main types: Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis. Hemodialysis often involves a machine that filters blood outside your body, typically at a clinic a few times a week. Peritoneal dialysis, meanwhile, uses the lining of your abdomen as a natural filter, which you can do at home—more flexible but requires daily practice. Choice often depends on lifestyle, health condition, and personal preference. Doctors usually weigh factors like your medical history, remaining kidney function, and how much independence you prefer. Naturally, the thought of dialysis for life is daunting. Reversing kidney damage fully might be tough in late stages, but managing or slowing progression is possible! In Ayurveda, addressing underlying dosha imbalances is key, along with dietary changes. Punarnava acts as a diuretic, while Gokshura supports urinary tract health, and Varuna can help with renal calculi (kidney stones). These herbs may provide supportive help, but always chat with an Ayurvedic physician first as they tailor treatments to individual Prakriti (constitution). Diet is crucial. Reduce salt intake, limit protein to ease kidney workload, and include lots of fluids—assuming your doctor doesn’t limit it. Eating fresh, seasonal fruits and command leafy greens can also help. Initial adjustment to dialysis can be challenging, often a rollercoaster. Many report better energy and less fluid retention after starting. Fellow patients note coping comes in waves, balancing new routines with emotional acceptance. Support groups or speaking with others who understand can often lighten the load!
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