Can Dialysis Improve Kidney Function

Dialysis is a recommended treatment for people whose renal functioning has deteriorated significantly due to renal damage. Damaged kidneys cannot carry out functions like filtering out wastes from the blood effectively. This leads to a gradual build of waste and toxins inside the body and can even lead to death if left untreated. In dialysis, a machine does the filtering job of the kidneys by removing wastes and toxins from the body.

When is Dialysis Needed?

Dialysis is needed when your renal functions have deteriorated significantly. In the majority of cases, patients with stage 5 CKD are considered candidates for dialysis. If your GFR is less than 15 and have lost close to 85% of your renal functions, then you would be recommended dialysis.

What are the 2 types of Dialysis?

The two main types of dialysis are:

• Hemodialysis
• Peritoneal dialysis

What is Hemodialysis?

In hemodialysis, a machine removes your blood and filters it through a dialyzer (artificial kidney). When the blood is thoroughly cleaned, it is returned to your body via the machine. It is a 3-5 hours long process and you may need to go through this procedure 2-3 times a week.

What is Peritoneal Dialysis?

In this dialysis, tiny blood vessels inside the abdominal lining (peritoneum) filter blood with the help of a dialysis solution. This solution is a form of a cleansing liquid that has water, salt, and other additives. Peritoneal dialysis takes place at home.

Can Dialysis Improve Kidney Function?

Dialysis is a time-consuming process and you may need to shell out a significant amount of money from your wallet as well for this medical procedure. It is only natural that you may ask, “Can dialysis improve kidney function?” In most of the cases, dialysis does strengthen renal functions. By removing wastes and discouraging the build-up of wastes inside the body, dialysis allows our body to function properly.

However, going through dialysis can be a cumbersome process. If you have underlying medical issues, then your quality of life may also be compromised severely. Apart from this, dialysis does not address the root cause of the renal damage and it cannot cure renal diseases. Dialysis may also lead to side effects such as low blood pressure, muscle cramps, itchy skin, anemia, etc. In short, dialysis, though, a life-saving procedure, may have multiple limitations.

Kidney Failure Treatment without Dialysis

Treating your renal diseases without undergoing dialysis is a reality with Ayurveda. Ayurvedic treatment of renal diseases focuses on addressing the root cause of renal ailments. Ayurveda views renal diseases as an imbalance of the doshas in the body. Ayurvedic treatment tries to rectify this imbalance by making use of natural herbs, home remedies, diet changes, etc.

How to Stop Dialysis Naturally and Permanently?

The answer is via Ayurveda. As mentioned briefly in the above paragraph, Ayurveda has potent drugs that effectively improve renal functions and ensure that your renal functions do not deteriorate to the extent that you have to undergo dialysis. Some Ayurvedic herbs that boost renal functions and may help you avoid dialysis are:

• Gokshura: Gokshura has been proven effective in curing urinary problems like renal infections. By consuming this herb, your overall renal functions also improve significantly.
• Punarnava: Punarnava has regenerative properties and is a drug extensively used in Ayurveda for treating multiple renal ailments. It regenerates kidney tissues and rejuvenates overall kidney health. By boosting our overall renal health, this Ayurvedic herb helps you avoid dialysis.
• Varuna: Varuna inhibits the formation of oxalates that help reduce your risk of kidney stones. It also has diuretic properties and aids in the effective removal of toxins and wastes from the body.
• Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea is rich in antioxidants that boost immunity and give a massive boost to our renal health. The antioxidative properties of this herb keep a check on oxidative stress and inflammation in the renal tissues as well.
• Shatavari: This natural herb has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the renal tissues. Consuming herbs for treating renal disorders is good, though, you must consult with your healthcare provider beforehand.

Home Remedies for Boosting Renal Functions

To avoid dialysis permanently, you must take appropriate measures to maintain your renal health at home. Ayurveda lists effective measures to boost kidney functions so that you do not have to undergo dialysis in the future. Some of them are:

• High-potassium foods should be avoided by patients with renal damage; opt for low-potassium foods like apples, berries, etc.
• Adopt a low-sodium lifestyle so that your blood pressure is in check.
• You should not consume processed and canned food items. These food items are high in sodium and can result in high blood pressure, if consumed regularly.
• Drink ample water to replenish your hydration needs; avoid carbonated drinks.
• Herbal teas are good for improving renal health; drink green tea, dandelion root tea, etc.
• Do not consume too much animal-based protein.
• Engage in regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
• Consume a fiber-rich diet as it improves digestion.
• Drink herbal teas to replenish your hydration needs and strengthen your renal functions as well.
• Avoid stress as it weakens your immunity and aggravates the symptoms related to renal diseases.

Dialysis is a life-saving, though, cumbersome process and you would want to avoid it in the first place. By taking preventive measures, adopting a renal-friendly diet, and exercising regularly, you can keep your kidneys healthy forever and save yourself from the dreaded clutches of dialysis.