The Importance of Kidney Health: Understanding Kidney Diseases and Their Impact
Kidney diseases represent a growing challenge for public health on a global scale. These conditions affect millions of people, leading to a progressive deterioration of kidney function and often severe complications. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), kidney diseases are the eighth leading cause of death among adults. Their prevalence is constantly increasing, notably due to factors such as the aging population, obesity, and chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
1. Why Dialysis?
Dialysis is a crucial treatment for individuals with advanced kidney failure. When the kidneys do not function properly, they cannot effectively filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. Dialysis acts as an artificial substitute for kidney function by removing toxins and regulating fluid balance in the body.
2. Understanding Dialysis?
Dialysis is one of the most common methods of renal replacement therapy. It involves using a machine called a dialyzer to filter the blood through a specialized filter, often referred to as an artificial kidney. During a dialysis session, the patient’s blood is pumped through the dialyzer, which cleans and purifies the blood before it is returned to the body.
Dialysis sessions are typically performed several times a week, with each session lasting several hours. This treatment often requires patients to visit specialized dialysis centers, where a qualified medical team monitors the process to ensure comfort and safety.
3. The Impact of Kidney Diseases on the Emotional Life of Families and Loved Ones of Patients:
Kidney diseases do not only affect the patients themselves. They also have a significant impact on their families and loved ones. The need for dialysis and other intensive treatments can create a considerable emotional burden for both the patients and their families.
Dialysis, in particular, can profoundly impact the quality of life of patients and their families. The constraints of regular dialysis sessions, dietary restrictions, and necessary lifestyle changes can lead to stress, anxiety, and sometimes even depression. Families and loved ones often have to adapt to new challenges and increased responsibilities, which can affect their emotional well-being and quality of life.