The initial goal in the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is to prevent and slow down further damage to the kidneys. Thus, treatment efforts concentrate on controlling the underlying disease that is causing the failure, and supporting the remaining kidney function. Treatment may include medication, dietary restrictions, exercise and education.
As kidney failure progresses, the patient is informed of the treatment options available, and the appropriate actions and preparations are planned and scheduled.
Dialysis is a treatment process whereby the blood is filtered and cleansed via a membrane (natural or artificial). During the dialysis treatment, the excess fluid and the uremic toxins accumulated in the body are removed, and the electrolyte and acid-base balance are corrected.
Different options are available for treating End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) and Hemodialysis (HD) as well as Transplantation of a healthy kidney.