Your kidneys are very important for your body’s function. They filter toxins and fluids from the blood, regulate pH, potassium and salt levels. When a kidney’s function is damaged, fluids, toxins, and minerals can build up in the body. Kidney disease can be confusing, and the treatments can seem intimidating. But, if you are in the right hands, you have nothing to fear. Here’s what you should know about kidney disease and dialysis near Lighthouse Point.
What Is Kidney Disease?
Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys are damaged and they can no longer filter blood properly. It is often caused by other diseases or conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, interstitial nephritis, and inherited conditions such as polycystic kidney disease.
What Are Signs of Kidney Disease?
Often, kidney disease is not detected until it has reached an advanced state. Symptoms may include increased or decreased urination, fatigue, trouble sleeping, ankle or foot swelling, high blood pressure, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
If you feel that you are experiencing signs of kidney disease, it is important that you contact a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The key to managing kidney disease is trying to catch it early and slowing the disease’s progress as much as possible.
What Should I Expect From Dialysis Near Lighthouse Point?
Once kidney function is at or below 15%, dialysis is used to perform the same filtering function of your kidneys until a transplant can be received. Your specific case will vary greatly depending on a number of factors.
In-center hemodialysis uses an artificial kidney machine to clean your blood by removing excess fluids, toxins, and salts before the blood is returned to your body. Home hemodialysis is a similar process, except you can do it at home to fit your schedule. Peritoneal dialysis performs the same function as the other types except it works through a catheter surgically placed into the abdominal cavity.
Dialysis is a pain-free treatment. Depending on your blood pressure you may experience dizziness or a headache. Treatment length varies but each usually takes about four hours, three times a week.
Where Can I Get the Best Dialysis Near Lighthouse Point?
At First Class Kidney Care, our team is here to help you through dialysis. We are experienced caring for patients with kidney disease. Call us at 754-307-9256 to make an appointment today for the best care during dialysis in Lighthouse Point.