An Introduction to Kidney Failure
A Look Inside the Role of Kidneys and What Happens When They Fail
Sep 17, 2009
Kidneys labor for the advancement of the body, to purify it and to keep it in proper balance. If for any period of time their function becomes inadequate, kidney treatments may become a way of life for their host.
Kidneys Function as Filters
Some of the key players in the amazing human filtration system are the kidneys. Humans have two kidneys, each shaped like a kidney bean and positioned on the left and right sides of our lower torso near the spine. Our kidneys serve as mega-filters with three main functions:
- Eliminate toxins in the blood.
- Eliminate excess fluid in the body.
- Stabilize and maintain blood pressure.
Compromised Kidney Function
Results obtained from a combination of urine analysis, blood analysis and biopsy help determine if and to what extent the kidneys functions have been compromised. If the kidneys functions are compromised, excess fluid and toxins build up in the body and blood pressure goes unregulated. Should this condition linger without signs of reversing, the blood will eventually become toxic and (unless appropriate medical treatment is provided) the individual will cease to live.
At present, there is no known cure for kidney failure but there are two treatment options available for the condition. They are dialysis and transplantation. Due to impending death, it is imminent within a short span of time [following the diagnosis of “kidney failure” (usually within days or weeks)] to render one of these treatment options.
Dialysis
Dialysis is a treatment in which the blood is filtered and cleaned with the help of a machine called a dialyzer. Dialysis can be conducted as an in-center or an at-home treatment process. There are currently two forms of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
Hemodialysis – Typically is conducted at an in-center treatment facility with medical staff monitoring and facilitating the treatment. Patients usually attend hemodialysis 3X per week, every week for the rest of their life, unless the transplantation option is sought and granted.
Peritoneal dialysis – Is considered an at-home treatment option where the patient facilitates the treatment. There are two types:
- Continuous Cyclic Peritoneal Dialysis (CCPD) [a.k.a. Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD)] - is more commonly used and is carried out overnight for a period of 8-10 hours while the patient is asleep.
- Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) - Is the other type of peritoneal dialysis available. It requires less time but is performed on a more frequent basis, during the day.
Transplantation
Transplantation involves surgically removing a kidney from its donor and relocating it into the lower abdomen of a recipient. Normally, this surgical procedure involves the transplantation of only one kidney (as it is very possible to live and thrive with a single, viable kidney). The transplanted kidney may come from a live donor or a cadaver (nonliving) donor.
Point to Ponder
This article is intended for informational purposes only. It does not take the place of a doctor’s advice. Before making decisions regarding your health, seek the consultation of a well-trained, medical professional.
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