Dialysis is a medical procedure that is used to help remove waste, salt, and extra water from the blood. It is most commonly used when the kidneys do not function correctly or fail altogether. Dialysis can also help control blood pressure, replace missing hormones and help to treat or prevent complications associated with kidney failure. In some cases, dialysis may be used to help patients with kidney disease avoid having to have a kidney transplant.
When the kidneys are not able to do their job, there are certain signs that may indicate it’s time to start dialysis. Some of these signs include difficulty with urination, extreme fatigue, swelling of the hands and feet, nausea, itching, and confusion. The most accurate way to determine if dialysis is needed is to measure creatinine levels in the blood. Creatinine is a waste product created by muscle metabolism, and when levels are high in the blood, it is a sign that the kidneys are not working properly.
Understanding Creatinine Levels
Creatinine levels in the blood can be measured with a simple blood test. Normal levels of creatinine are between 0.6 – 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). When levels are higher than this, it can be an indication that the kidneys are not functioning properly and dialysis may be needed. If the creatinine levels are very high, dialysis may be needed immediately to prevent further damage to the kidneys.
The creatinine level can also be used to determine how well a person’s kidneys are functioning. If creatinine levels are consistently high, it may be a sign that the kidneys are not working as well as they should. In this case, dialysis may be needed to help remove waste products from the body. If creatinine levels are consistently lower than normal, it may be a sign that the kidneys are working efficiently and no dialysis is needed.
How Are Creatinine Levels Used To Determine When Dialysis Is Needed?
When creatinine levels are high, it is an indication that the kidneys are not functioning properly and dialysis may be needed. The exact level at which dialysis is needed depends on the patient’s overall health and the severity of their kidney disease. In general, if creatinine levels are consistently above 5 mg/dl, dialysis may be recommended.
Before starting dialysis, doctors will conduct other tests to determine how well the kidneys are functioning and if dialysis is really necessary. This may include a urine test to check for any protein in the urine, a blood test to check for electrolyte and acid levels, and a blood pressure test.
What Are The Risks Of Dialysis?
Dialysis is a medical procedure and like any other medical procedure, it carries certain risks. Some of the risks associated with dialysis include infection, low blood pressure, and allergic reactions. Dialysis can also cause muscle cramps, headaches, and nausea.
It is important to work closely with your doctor to decide if dialysis is right for you and to understand the risks and benefits associated with the procedure. Your doctor can help you decide what treatment is best for you, and they can provide you with information to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
When the kidneys do not function properly, it is important to look for signs that dialysis may be needed. Creatinine levels in the blood can be used to help determine if dialysis is needed and how well the kidneys are functioning. It is important to work closely with your doctor to decide if dialysis is the right treatment for you and to understand the risks and benefits associated with the procedure.
