Dialysis is a treatment that is often given to people whose kidneys are not functioning properly. While dialysis can be a life saving treatment, it can often come alongside side effects.

There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Both of these treatments are designed to help the body filter waste and fluids.

Here is a list of the most common side effects of dialysis. Please note that this list is for information purposes, and to reach out to your doctor if you have any questions about how dialysis might affect you.

Hemodialysis Side Effects

1. Low blood pressure (hypotension): Blood pressure can often drop during hemodialysis, which can often bring about blurred vision, dizziness, fatigue, and an upset stomach.
2. Infection. The access for hemodialysis can often become infected if it is not cleaned properly.
3. Sleep disruptions. People undergoing hemodialysis can experience sleep apnea or aches during the night. Some people will also feel restless.
4. Muscle cramps: While the cause of muscle cramps is unclear, it can happen during the hemodialysis process. Adjusting the process and drinking fluids between sessions are common ways to ease cramps.
5. Weakness or dizziness. Some people will feel fatigue and become weaker or dizzy after hemodialysis.
6. Itching: Many individuals experience itching during or after hemodialysis.
7. Depression. Many people will experience mood changes after hemodialysis.

PD Home Dialysis Side Effects

1. Infection. In PD, peritonitis, is a risk, which occurs at the catheter site. One sign of infection is the dialysis will look cloudy.
2. Bloating/weight gain. Many people will experience weight from the dialysis solution, and the sugars contained within them.
3. Anxiety or depression. Some people will experience a change in how they feel after dialysis.
4. Hernia. Pressure on the abdominal muscles can cause the organs to weaken, causing hernia.
5. Feeling full. Many people who are on PD will feel fuller because the solution can cause them to feel as though they’ve already eaten.
6. Treatments become less effective. Over time, PD can become less effective, and many people will switch to hemodialysis over time.