Peritoneal Dialysis Explained: 10 Things Need to Know About This Kidney Treatment

7. Travel Flexibility and "Dialysis on the Go"

travel. Photo Credit: Envato @nsrisawai

For many, the idea of dialysis conjures images of being tethered to a clinic. Peritoneal dialysis ingeniously offers a remarkable level of travel flexibility. Since the equipment is portable (bags of solution and a cycler, if used), patients can perform their treatments almost anywhere – at home, at work, or even during vacations. This "dialysis on the go" eliminates the need to coordinate clinic appointments in different cities or countries, a significant logistical hurdle for hemodialysis patients. Proper planning for solution delivery to the destination is key, but the freedom to maintain a more active and mobile lifestyle is a profound benefit.

8. Preserving Residual Kidney Function

Urology and treatment of kidney disease. Doctor analyzing of patient kidney health using kidney. Photo Credit: Envato @Peakstock

An often-touted, but sometimes overlooked, benefit of peritoneal dialysis is its potential to better preserve residual kidney function (RKF) compared to hemodialysis. RKF refers to any remaining function your kidneys still have, even if minimal. Studies suggest that the more continuous and gentle nature of PD puts less stress on the remaining kidney tissue, potentially extending how long a patient retains some natural kidney function. Preserving even a small amount of RKF can significantly improve a patient's quality of life by reducing the burden of dialysis, aiding in fluid balance, and potentially leading to better health outcomes overall.

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