Dialysis / Nephrology

Dialysis and Nephrology are closely related fields focused on kidney health and function. Dialysis is a treatment for kidney failure, where the kidneys can no longer filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. Dialysis helps maintain the balance of fluids and electrolytes and removes toxins from the body when the kidneys fail to do so. Nephrology is the medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating kidney-related conditions, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), high blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances. Nephrologists aim to manage and preserve kidney function and address conditions that can lead to kidney failure.

Nephrology:

Nephrology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the study and treatment of kidney diseases and disorders. Nephrologists are doctors who specialize in this field and deal with various conditions such as:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A gradual loss of kidney function over time.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): A sudden decline in kidney function.
Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units.
Hypertension: High blood pressure, which can affect kidney function.
Kidney Stones: Hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys.
Kidney Transplantation: Replacement of a diseased kidney with a healthy one from a donor.
Nephrologists work closely with patients to manage these conditions, often involving lifestyle changes, medications, and, in severe cases, dialysis or transplantation.

dialysis:

Dialysis is a medical treatment used to perform the function of the kidneys when they are no longer able to do so effectively. It helps remove waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which the kidneys would normally filter out. There are two main types of dialysis:
Hemodialysis: This method involves diverting blood from the body into a machine, where it is filtered before being returned to the body. It typically requires an access point to the bloodstream, such as a fistula or graft, and usually takes place in a dialysis center, although home hemodialysis is also an option.
Peritoneal Dialysis: This method uses the lining of the abdomen (the peritoneum) as a filter. A special fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a catheter, where it absorbs waste products and excess fluids. The fluid is then drained and replaced with fresh fluid. This can be done manually (Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis, or CAPD) or with a machine (Automated Peritoneal Dialysis, or APD).

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