Dialysis: Types, How It Works, and What to Expect

Dealing with kidney issues can feel overwhelming, especially when dialysis first comes up. Here's the reality: when your kidneys can no longer do their job well, dialysis steps in to remove extra fluid and waste from your blood, so your body stays in balance.

This guide explains the two main types of dialysis in plain terms, so you can make a confident, informed choice alongside your doctor. Bali International Hospital offers modern equipment and experienced kidney doctors, called nephrologists, who guide you through every step.

Hemodialysis vs Peritoneal Dialysis: Which One Is Right for You?

Hemodialysis ("Cuci Darah")

In hemodialysis, a machine acts like an artificial kidney. A small amount of your blood is pumped out of your body, run through a special filter that cleans it, and returned to you.

To do this, your doctor creates a doorway into your blood vessels, known as vascular access, usually through a small surgical connection called an AV fistula, an AV graft, or a temporary line placed in your neck or chest. Hemodialysis is done at the hospital or a dialysis center, where nurses monitor you closely throughout the session.

Many people choose it for its effectiveness and the reassurance of having a care team nearby.

Peritoneal Dialysis (Done at Home)

Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining inside your belly, called the peritoneum, as a natural filter. A cleaning fluid, known as dialysate, is placed into your belly through a small tube.

It sits there for a few hours, absorbing waste, before you drain it out and replace it with fresh fluid. There are two common approaches:

• CAPD: done by hand several times a day
• APD: done overnight while you sleep using a small machine

Many people choose peritoneal dialysis for the flexibility it offers, since it can often be done at home, at work, or while traveling.

What Happens Inside Your Body During Dialysis?

Think of your blood like a glass of water that's picked up some impurities. Dialysis passes it through a very fine filter, called a semipermeable membrane, that catches waste and extra salt while keeping the parts your body needs, like red blood cells.

In hemodialysis, that filter is inside the machine. In peritoneal dialysis, your own belly lining acts as the filter, with the cleaning fluid drawing the waste out.

A Walkthrough: Before, During, and After Dialysis

Before starting, a nurse checks your weight, blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. This tells your care team exactly how much fluid needs to be removed.

During hemodialysis at the hospital, two small needles are placed into your AV fistula or graft. Your blood flows out to the machine, gets filtered, and flows back in, while nurses keep a close eye on you for about four hours.

During peritoneal dialysis, the cleaning fluid flows into your belly through the tube. You wait a few hours for waste to soak into the fluid, then drain it out and add fresh fluid.

Afterward, needle sites are cleaned and covered to stop any bleeding. Cleanliness matters a great deal here:

• Careful hand-washing
• Wearing masks when needed
• Keeping all supplies sterile all help prevent infections

This is something we pay close attention to at our hospital.

Expert Care in a Comfortable Setting

At our international hospital, you're supported by a team of kidney specialists and trained nurses who take the time to listen to your concerns. We use modern dialysis machines to help keep treatment comfortable and effective, and we follow strict infection control protocols throughout our facility.

Rather than choosing a dialysis type for you, our team looks at your overall health, your blood vessel health, any prior abdominal surgery, and your daily routine, so we can recommend the option that fits your life.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis fits your life better, the goal is the same: helping you feel better and get back to your routine. Making this decision can feel like a lot, but you don't have to sort it out on your own.

Our doctors are ready to answer your questions, at your own pace. Ready to talk to a specialist?

Contact us or book a consultation, and let's find the best path forward for you or your loved one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between Dialysis Types?

Hemodialysis filters your blood through a machine at the hospital or a dialysis center, while peritoneal dialysis uses your belly lining as a natural filter and can often be done at home.

Which Option Is Better?

Neither option is universally better. The right choice depends on your health, your blood vessels, any prior abdominal surgery, and your lifestyle, which is why it's worth discussing with your nephrologist.

Can Dialysis Be Done at Home?

Yes. Peritoneal dialysis is designed to be done at home, at work, or while traveling, using either a manual method (CAPD) or a machine overnight (APD).

What Are the Risks?

Both types of dialysis carry some risk of infection, which is why strict hygiene and sterile supplies are essential. Your care team monitors you closely to catch and manage any concerns early.