HemoDialysis

When Your Kidneys Fail Hemodialysis Hemodialysis Access and How It Works How Hemodialysis Works The Pros and Cons of Hemodialysis Paying for Hemodialysis

The Pros and Cons of Hemodialysis Hemodialysis is one option for treating renal failure.  There are benefits and drawbacks to hemodialysis.   The chart below outlines the pros and cons to help you decide if  hemodialysis may be the right treatment for you. Hemodialysis Benefits (Pros) Hemodialysis Drawbacks (Cons)     Trained staff helps with the dialysis treatment You must follow the rules of the dialysis center (e.g. no eating, number of visitors restricted) Medical help is available quickly if there is an emergency Food and fluids are limited and must be watched closely Support is given from staff and you can interact with other people who are on dialysis You are responsible for getting to and from the dialysis center 3 times each week You don't have to care for and store a machine and dialysis equipment like you do for peritoneal dialysis Dialysis schedule is not flexible-your treatments are scheduled by the dialysis center Treatment is (usually) 3 times per week Cannot skip a treatment or shorten a treatment without increased risk of death Four non-treatment days off You can experience a washed out feeling from hemodialysis