What is Dialysis?
Dialysis is a medical process used when the kidneys fail to properly filter waste products, excess salts, and fluids from the blood.
It artificially performs the filtration function of the kidneys.
Functions of Kidneys
• Removal of metabolic wastes (urea, uric acid, creatinine)
• Regulation of water balance in the body
• Maintenance of electrolyte balance (sodium, potassium)
• Regulation of blood pressure
• Production of hormones like erythropoietin
Types of Dialysis
• Hemodialysis → Blood is filtered using an artificial kidney machine (dialyzer)
• Peritoneal Dialysis → Uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter
Diseases Leading to Dialysis
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Kidney failure
• Diabetic nephropathy
• Severe hypertension damaging kidneys
Important Kidney Concepts for Exams
Nephron → Structural and functional unit of kidney
Glomerulus → Capillary network where filtration begins
Urea → Major nitrogenous waste removed by kidneys
Creatinine → Indicator used to measure kidney function
Dialyzer → Artificial kidney machine used in dialysis
Human Kidney Facts
• Humans have two kidneys
• Located in the abdominal cavity near the backbone
• Each kidney contains about 1 million nephrons