Chronic renal failure (CRF) depicts a gradual loss of the functions of the kidneys. The kidneys are responsible for filtering excess fluids and wastes from the blood by way of excreting them through urine. CRF works in interfering with these functions of the kidney. The moment CRF reaches an advanced stage, there are dangerous levels of electrolytes, wastes and fluids that are likely to build up in the body. Chronic renal failure is not usually apparent until the kidney’s function is significantly impaired (Thomas, 2019). Dialysis, on the other hand, is the process of removing excess toxins, water and solutes from the blood.

Dialysis is the preferred way of treating CRF due to its function of removing accumulated toxins and water in the body. For a patient suffering from Chronic renal failure, dialysis helps in removing extra water, salt and waste with the objective of preventing a build-up in the body. It also helps to keep certain chemicals in the blood like sodium, potassium and bicarbonate at safe levels (Yee, 2019). Dialysis does not work to cure CRF, but aids in performing some of the functions of healthy kidneys. In chronic renal failure, the kidneys do not get better with time, and patients end up needing dialysis for the rest of their life.

Dialysis makes it possible for patients suffering from CRF to continue living for more years or even decades. However, it is good to note that for patients undergoing dialysis, their cardiovascular risk increases significantly compared to normal people. Dialysis also has the ability to affect endothelial function hence aggravating the risk for cardiac problems and hypertension (Vadakedath & Kandi, 2017). As a result, it is important for both patients and physicians to understand the likely consequences involved.

References

Thomas, N. (2019). Renal Nursing: Care and Management of People with Kidney Disease (5th ed.). John Wiley & Sons.

Vadakedath, S., & Kandi, V. (2017). Dialysis: A Review of the Mechanisms Underlying Complications in the Management of Chronic Renal Failure. Cureus, 9(8).

Yee, J. (2019). Integrating a Values-Based Dialysis Decision Aid Into Nephrology Care: Effects on Two Dialysis Communication Styles. Advances In Chronic Kidney Disease, 26(2), 155.