Kidney Transplants vs Dialysis: 3 Reasons to Make a Thoughtful Decision
Choose the path to a healthier, longer life. Discover the differences between dialysis and kidney transplant, and gain essential
Kidney disease is more common than many people think.It is one of the health problems people often overlook because it often begins silently, without obvious symptoms. However, when symptoms do appear, the disease is usually already advanced. That is why recognizing the early warning signs of kidney disease is crucial for timely treatment.
What is kidney disease, and why is it more common than you think?
Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly. They can no longer effectively filter waste from the blood or regulate fluid balance, electrolytes, and blood pressure. If left untreated, the condition may progress to Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or even kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Warning signs of kidney disease to watch for
1. Abnormal urination
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Excessive foamy urine
- Dark-colored urine, like diluted meat wash, or blood in the urine
2. Swelling, commonly around the face, eyelids, legs, and feet
3. High blood pressure, especially if detected before the age of 35, may be linked to certain types of kidney inflammation.
4. Fatigue, weakness, or anemia
5. Itchy skin, dryness, or darkened complexion
6. Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
Risk factors for kidney disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Family history of kidney disease, such as polycystic kidney disease
- Long-term use of certain medications, e.g., pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or some herbal medicines
- High-salt diet, especially when combined with low water intake
- Smoking
Treatment of kidney disease
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, as well as the stage and severity of the disease. Physicians will tailor the most appropriate approach for each patient.
1. Early-stage kidney disease
- Control the underlying conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure through diet, medication, and regular follow-ups.
- Use medications that help slow kidney deterioration, such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or SGLT-2 inhibitors.
- Lifestyle modifications: reduce salt and protein intake to lessen the kidneys’ workload
- Weight control: maintain a BMI of no more than 23 kg/m²
2. Moderate-stage kidney disease
- Treat complications such as anemia, electrolyte imbalance, and edema.
- Close monitoring of kidney function by a nephrologist
3. End-stage kidney failure
3.1 Dialysis, which includes two methods:
- Hemodialysis
- Peritoneal dialysis
The option that offers patients the closest return to a standard quality of life.
3.3 Palliative care
How to care for and prevent kidney disease
- Have regular health check-ups: blood pressure measurement, blood tests, and urine tests at least once a year
- Keep blood sugar and blood pressure within normal ranges
- Reduce salty and processed foods
- Drink enough water: about 30 ml per kilogram of body weight per day, or roughly 2,000 ml daily
- Avoid unnecessary use of medications that may harm the kidneys
Kidney disease is more concerning than you think. If you notice abnormalities such as changes in urination, swelling, easy fatigue, or high blood pressure, consult a doctor promptly. Early treatment can slow disease progression. Once kidney failure develops, dialysis or transplantation may be required. Prevention and regular health screening are the keys to keeping your kidneys healthy for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kidney Disease
- How many times a week is dialysis required?
Hemodialysis is usually performed about 2–3 times per week, depending on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s judgment.
- How long does a transplanted kidney last?
With proper care and adherence to immunosuppressive medication, a transplanted kidney can function for an average of 10–20 years or longer.
- Can kidney disease be cured entirely?
Some early-stage kidney conditions can be cured if diagnosed and treated promptly. However, chronic kidney disease is usually not curable; treatment focuses on slowing progression through medication and lifestyle changes. In end-stage kidney failure, kidney function cannot be restored, and dialysis or kidney transplantation is required.
- Does eating salty food really cause kidney disease?
Yes. Long-term excessive sodium intake increases the risk of chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
For more information, please contact
Hemodialysis Center, Vejthani International Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 5021
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888
Medically Reviewed by
Readers’ Rating
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 3 reviews)
