For people living with kidney disease, dialysis can be a life-saving treatment. But did you know that dialysis doesn’t always have to take place in a clinic? More and more patients are choosing home dialysis—a safe, effective alternative that offers greater flexibility and independence. If you’re new to the idea of home dialysis, this guide will help you understand the basics, the different types available, and the benefits it can offer.
Understanding Home Dialysis
Dialysis is a process that removes waste, toxins and excess fluids from the blood when your kidneys are no longer able to do so on their own. There are two main types of dialysis—hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis—and both can be done at home with the right training and support.
Types of Home Dialysis
1. Home Hemodialysis (HHD). In home hemodialysis, a machine filters your blood much like an in-center dialysis machine would. You and a care partner are trained to use the equipment safely at home. Treatments can be done on a schedule that fits your lifestyle—whether that’s during the day, in the evening, or even overnight while you sleep.
Home hemodialysis can be done more frequently than in-center dialysis, which may help you feel more energetic while also having fewer side effects and better health outcomes in general.
2. Peritoneal Dialysis (PD). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (called the peritoneum) and a special cleansing fluid to remove waste from your blood. This type of dialysis doesn’t always require a machine. There are two types of peritoneal dialysis:
- Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD): Done manually several times a day.
- Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD): Uses a machine to perform exchanges overnight while you sleep.
Benefits of Home Dialysis
Home dialysis offers several important advantages compared to in-center treatments:
- Greater flexibility: Set your own schedule and dialyze at times that work best for you.
- Comfort and privacy: Receive treatment in your own home, in a familiar and comfortable environment.
- Improved health outcomes: More frequent or longer dialysis sessions may lead to better blood pressure control, fewer dietary restrictions and improved energy levels.
- More independence: Many patients feel more in control of their health and daily lives.
- Fewer trips to the clinic: Save time and transportation costs by reducing or eliminating the need to travel to a dialysis center several times a week.
Is Home Dialysis Right for You?
Home dialysis isn’t for everyone but for many, it offers a path to greater freedom and improved quality of life. If you’re interested, talk to your kidney care team at Puget Sound Kidney Centers. We offer home dialysis training and ongoing support to help patients and their families feel confident and safe managing dialysis at home.
Your health. Your life. Your choice. Let us help you explore the right option for you.
Want to learn more?
Speak with your care team to find out if home dialysis could be a good fit for your lifestyle.