Dialysis

Kingsport Kidney Center

At Kingsport Kidney Center, we specialize in providing high-quality dialysis treatments for patients with kidney disease. Our experienced team is dedicated to delivering personalized care to every patient.

We understand that undergoing dialysis can be a difficult and stressful experience. Our goal is to create a comfortable and welcoming environment while providing compassionate care and support as patients manage kidney disease.

About Dialysis Treatment

What is dialysis treatment?

When your kidneys fail, dialysis helps keep your body in balance by filtering toxins, waste, and excess fluid from the blood. Dialysis performs the job that your kidneys can no longer do on their own. Maintaining safe levels of potassium, sodium, and bicarbonate in the body helps control blood sugar and blood pressure.

There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Hemodialysis uses an artificial kidney (hemodialyzer) to remove waste, chemicals, and excess water from the blood. A small surgical procedure creates access to your blood vessels through a port in the arm or leg. Treatment time depends on several factors including kidney function, fluid weight gained between treatments, body size, and the type of artificial kidney used. Most treatments last about four hours and are typically performed three times per week. Hemodialysis can be performed in a dialysis center or at home.

Peritoneal dialysis cleans the blood inside the body. A catheter is placed in the abdomen to provide an access port where dialysate fluid is introduced. Waste products and extra fluid move from the blood into the dialysate and are then removed from the body.

When is dialysis needed?

Dialysis is typically needed when a person develops end-stage kidney failure, meaning the kidneys have lost about 85–90 percent of their function and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) drops below 15.

Does dialysis cure kidney disease?

No. Dialysis does not cure kidney disease. Treatment is required long-term unless a patient receives a kidney transplant. Many people live productive lives while on dialysis by carefully following their treatment plan.

Is dialysis treatment uncomfortable?

The dialysis procedure itself is generally painless. Some patients may experience symptoms such as low blood pressure, nausea, headaches, or muscle cramps during treatment, but these symptoms often improve with regular dialysis.

Will I need to make lifestyle changes?

Yes. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes that limit fluids, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Your diet may vary depending on the type of dialysis treatment you receive, so it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations closely.