Peritoneal Dialysis at Home: An Option Worth Knowing

Peritoneal dialysis cleans the blood inside the body. A sterile fluid is placed in the abdomen through a soft tube, and the lining of the abdomen filters waste into the fluid, which is then drained. There are two forms: CAPD, manual exchanges during the day, and automated PD, where a machine performs exchanges during sleep. It suits people who value independence, can keep a clean technique, and have a suitable home space. It needs training and careful hygiene, because infection of the abdomen is the main risk. Many people move between hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis over time, depending on medical suitability.