What Are Conditions That a Dialysis Machine Helps?

• A dialysis machine is used as a replacement for kidney functions if you lose the ability to use your kidneys due to renal failure, which occurs when your kidneys are unable to filter out waste products from the blood. Dialysis machines can either be used a stop-gap measure in an emergency situation or as part of a long-term treatment plan. The machines can be used to treat several different conditions.
  
  

Acute Kidney Failure

• Acute kidney failure, also known as "sudden kidney failure," occurs when an individual unexpectedly loses kidney function. The condition can be caused by numerous accidental factors, such as dehydration, burns or internal bleeding. The condition also can occur as a result of a previous physical disorder, such as hypertension or other kidney diseases. Use of a dialysis machine is not always necessary for an individual suffering from acute kidney failure. Often diuretics, which are pills that encourage urination, or antibiotics are enough to treat temporary kidney failure. However, if there is fear of excessive waste buildup or if an individual does not regain proper kidney functioning within a day or two, a doctor may opt to put an individual on a dialysis machine until proper kidney functioning returns.
  
  

Chronic Kidney Disease

• About 26 million Americans suffer from chronic kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease is commonly caused by diabetes or high blood pressure. Long-term damage from chronic kidney disease can force an individual to go on dialysis. Unlike acute kidney failure, sufferers of chronic kidney disease use dialysis on a regular basis to help their kidneys filter waste products. Individuals who use a dialysis machine to treat chronic kidney disease establish frequent timing (often weekly) for treatment, often at a special dialysis treatment clinic. In the case of older patients, dialysis treatment can be performed at home.
  
  

Hepatorenal syndrome

• Hepatorenal syndrome is a condition in which the kidneys deteriorate due to cirrhosis of the liver. With this condition, the liver begins to inflame and scar, causing a decrease in liver function. While most treatment of hepatorenal syndrome focus on improving liver function, dialysis is sometimes necessary to prevent renal failure.