When your kidneys no longer filter out toxins in your blood, we call this condition end stage renal disease (ESRD). if this happens your body needs an alternative to filter your blood to keep you alive.
​
There are two main life-saving alternatives.
Kidney transplant is our first choice for patients approaching or who already have ESRD. A transplant center like University Hospitals or Cleveland Clinic can tell you if you qualify for a kidney transplant.
​
If transplant is not for you, you can choose dialysis. There are three kinds: Hemodialysis (HD), home hemodialysis (HH), or Peritoneal Dialysis (PD). Understanding the difference can help you make the best choice between them.
If you are at the start of your kidney replacement exploration or considering switching from one type of dialysis to another, watch this video from Wolters Kluwer and Tufts University for an overview of the benefits of transplant and the different kinds of dialysis.
​
Talk to your physician here at CKHC about which you think would suit you best. We understand what you're going through and will guide you with compassion and understanding.
​
​