Kingsport Kidney Center

At Kingsport Kidney Center, we specialize in providing high-quality dialysis treatments to patients suffering from kidney disease. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care to each of our patients.

We understand that undergoing dialysis can be a difficult and stressful experience, which is why we strive to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for our patients. Our staff is dedicated to providing compassionate and empathetic care, and we work closely with our patients to help them manage their kidney disease.

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About Dialysis Treatment

  • What is dialysis treatment?

    When your kidneys fail, dialysis keeps your body in balance by filtering toxins, waste and fluid from your blood, doing the job that your kidneys can no longer do on their own. Keeping a safe level of potassium, sodium and bicarbonate in your system is key to heling control blood sugar and blood pressure. There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

    Hemodialysis is when an artificial kidney (hemodialyzer) is used to remove waste and extra
    chemicals and water from your blood. You will have a procedure to install a port that will allow the doctor access to your blood vessels in your arm or leg. Hemodialysis treatment time depends on how well your kidneys work, how much fluid weight you gain between treatments, how much waster you have in your body, your body size, and the type of artificial kidney used. Each treatment typically lasts around 4 hours and is done three times per week. This type of dialysis can be done both in-center or at home. At home dialysis allows some to better fit treatments into their schedule, making it more convenient.

    Peritoneal dialysis is when your blood is cleaned inside your body. Your doctor will place a catheter in your abdomen to make an access port which is slowly filled with dialysate through the catheter. Extra fluid and waster products are drawn out of your blood and into the dialysate.

  • When is dialysis needed?

    When you develop end stage kidney failure (a loss of about 85-90 percent of your kidney function and have a GFR of <15), you will need dialysis treatment.

  • Does dialysis treatment cure kidney disease?

    No. Once placed on dialysis, the treatment will be required for the remainder of your life unless you are able to receive a kidney transplant. Life expectancy on dialysis can vary depending on your other medical conditions and how well you follow your treatment plan. If you follow the treatment plan, you can live a normal life except for the time required for treatments.

  • Is dialysis treatment uncomfortable?

    The dialysis treatment itself is painless. However, some patients may experience a drop in blood pressure which can make you feel sick to your stomach, vomit or have a headache or cramps which typically go away with frequent treatments.

  • Will I need to make any lifestyle changes?

    Yes. Your doctor will likely put you on a special diet, limiting your intake of water, sodium, potassium and phosphorus. Your diet may vary depending on your treatment, so it’s important to talk to your doctor and follow the treatment plan he/she provides for you.