WHAT IS HOME DIALYSIS?
Home dialysis is a treatment method for kidney failure that enables people with kidney disease to carry out dialysis themselves at home instead of in a hospital or dialysis center
Dialysis is used to clean the blood when the kidneys are not working properly. With the help of a special machine, the blood is filtered and excess fluids and waste substances that the body cannot eliminate on its own are removed. After receiving training, a person can, by themself, or with the help of a relative, handle and carry out the dialysis treatment in their own home, which contributes to greater flexibility and autonomy in everyday life. Home dialysis can be adapted to the individual's needs and lifestyle, which often results in increased quality of life.
WHY DIALYSIS AT HOME?
Managing your own dialysis treatment at home can have many advantages for the patient. Both regarding health and well-being for the individual but also for society from a health economic perspective
Living with kidney failure can be a challenge where regular visits to the hospital or dialysis clinic can be time-consuming and mentally taxing. Thanks to medical advances, home dialysis is now more accessible than ever, offering patients a more convenient and flexible solution.
BENEFITS OF HOME DIALYSIS
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Comfort and Convenience: Home dialysis makes it possible to undergo the treatment at your own pace and in your own home environment. This reduces the need for frequent trips to the hospital and saves time and energy.
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Flexibility: Home dialysis can be adapted to the patient's schedule, which gives the opportunity to choose times that suit the individual best. This can increase adherence to treatment
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Better control: By monitoring their own treatment, the patient can feel more involved and have more control over their health.
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Reduced exposure: Staying at home reduces the risk of exposure to hospital-acquired infections and other potential health risks
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Personal customization: Home dialysis machines can be adjusted to better suit the individual's specific needs, which can lead to better treatment results.
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Presence and support of relatives: Being close to family during dialysis can provide emotional support and make the whole process more pleasant.
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Financial benefits: Despite initial costs for equipment and training, home dialysis can reduce costs in the long term compared to traditional dialysis in a clinical setting
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Technological advances: With the latest technology, home dialysis machines are becoming increasingly user-friendly and efficient, making home dialysis an increasingly attractive option for many.
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Improved quality of life: Many people who have switched to home dialysis testify to an improved quality of life thanks to the increased freedom and autonomy it provides.
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Improved time utilization: In some cases, home dialysis can be performed at night, which can save a lot of time
TWO TYPES OF DIALYSIS
The two main types of dialysis are hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis uses an external machine to filter the blood and is usually performed at a dialysis center or at home. Peritoneal dialysis uses the peritoneum as a natural filter, where dialysis fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity and then drained away. This method is most often performed in the patient's home. The choice between these methods depends on the patient's medical needs and lifestyle.
Both types of dialysis have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of treatment depends on the patient's medical condition, lifestyle and personal preferences. It is important to discuss with the attending physician to determine the best option.