What is a graft?

When a fistula cannot be created a synthetic material tube is used to connect the artery and vein. The graft usually are more prone to infections and clotting.

Some patients complain of giddiness after dialysis. What is it due to?

The giddiness is usually due to hypotension or low blood pressure after dialysis. Hypotension after dialysis is seen in 20–30% of patients. It is more commonly seen when the dialysis solution contains acetate. In addition, if the dialysis is too warm it can cause low blood pressure. It is important to remember that blood pressure lowering medicines can contribute to it. In some patients it may be due to underlying heart disease.

Is there any remedy for this giddiness?

It is usually treated by giving some saline and decreasing the amount of fluid removal and reassessing the weight of the patient in between dialysis.

What is the cause of nausea and vomiting after dialysis?

Nausea and vomiting, seen in about 5–15% of patients, is usually related to hypotensive episodes. May be seen when patient has skipped dialysis treatments and have high urea levels.

What are some of the other complications seen during dialysis?

Headache, chest pain, back pain, itching and fever may be seen during dialysis.

Can infections be transmitted by dialysis?

Yes. If adequate precautions and proper screening of patients for viruses are not taken. Patients should be screened for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV. Dialysis nurses should wear gloves while handling patients or dialysis apparatus, appropriate methods of disinfecting the dialysis equipment should be done.

If a patient is Hepatitis B or HIV positive can that patient undergo dialysis?

If the patient is positive for HIV or Hepatitis B usually machines dedicated for these patients are used in order to minimize these transmission of these diseases.