Dialysis Machine and its Uses- Class 10

Dialysis Machine 

Dialysis is a process that acts like an artificial kidney for people with kidney failure, also known as End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). When the kidneys fail to remove waste from the blood, it leads to a condition called uremia.

Dialysis is a way to purify the blood. Each dialysis session typically lasts 3 to 5 hours. A dialysis machine is a medical device that filters waste products, excess salts, and fluids from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do so effectively. However, the machine only purifies about 90% of the blood in each session.

There are two main types of dialysis:

1. Hemodialysis:

   In this process, blood is drawn from the patient and passed through a filter called a dialyzer. The dialyzer cleans the blood, which is then returned to the body. Hemodialysis is usually done in a clinic or hospital, and it is often performed three times a week.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis:

   This type of dialysis can be done at home. It uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as a filter to clean the blood. A special fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity to absorb waste, and then it is drained.

Purpose of Dialysis: 

While dialysis is not a cure for kidney disease, it helps manage symptoms and improves the quality of life for people with kidney failure. It helps maintain the right balance of water, minerals, and chemicals in the body, which is essential for good health.

Advantages of Dialysis:

– It is a life-saving treatment.

– It improves quality of life by managing kidney failure symptoms.

– It serves as a bridge to kidney transplantation for some patients.

– It is a non-invasive treatment, especially in the case of peritoneal dialysis, which can be done at home.