Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I've been hearing a lot more lately about Short Daily Home Hemodialysis
(SDHD) – why the renewed interest?
A: First, the dialysis community has been vigilantly searching for the "perfect therapy". Second, the recent introduction of a device specifically designed for
short daily hemodialysis has made this therapy accessible to more people. There is substantial evidence to support the clinical and quality of life benefits from more frequent hemodialysis. The cumulative data on
short daily hemodialysis demonstrates a uniform, measurable improvement in patient tolerance of dialysis, blood pressure, hematocrit, appetite, protein intake and dry weight. Medications such as antihypertensives and phosphate binders (for those patients dialyzing overnight) are markedly decreased or discontinued. Additionally, patients and investigators report vast improvements in energy levels, mental alertness, sleep and sexual functions, and a significant decrease in the occurrence of "hemodialysis hangover", itching, thirst, cramping and depression.
Q: What Is Nocturnal Home Hemodialysis?
A: It is a form of hemodialysis that can be done at home by either the patient, mate or other family member. It is done at night, while the patient is asleep. It is done six or seven nights a week. The length of the dialysis varies. It can last as long as the patient wants to sleep, anywhere from five to 12 hours, with eight hours being the average. The dialysis machine can be monitored by trained hospital staff by telephone modem or Internet. The machine will occasionally alert patients to any problems. (Most problems are minor and usually require pressing a "reset" button.) However, if the patient does not respond within a reasonable period, the hospital monitor will contact them by phone.
Q: Why Is Nocturnal Hemodialysis better?
A: Because it is long and frequent, Nocturnal Hemodialysis can offer a very high dose of dialysis. When it comes to toxins like urea, NHHD can offer results as effective as normal kidneys. Generally, all symptoms associated with kidney failure improve or disappear. Patients report feeling more energetic, having increased stamina, improved appetites and less bouts of nausea. There are fewer complaints of other symptoms like itchy or dry skin or "restless leg syndrome." Many patients have also found their need for medications to combat such things as high blood pressure has diminished or ended altogether. Other patients diagnosed with sleeping disorders (i.e. sleep apnea) no longer reported those problems.
Q: What are the different types of dialysis?
A: Dialysis is a way to clean the blood artificially, rather than by the kidneys. There are two types of dialysis, hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
