What is dialysis?
Q: What is dialysis?
A: Dialysis is a medical treatment where a machine is used to replace the function of a kidney after kidney failure.
Q: Where does the word "dialysis" come from?
A: The word "dialysis" comes from the Greek word "dialusis", which means "through" and "lusis", which means "loosening".
Q: Who can undergo dialysis?
A: Dialysis can be used for people who have lost the function of their kidneys for a short time, or for people who no longer have working kidneys.
Q: What is the function of the kidneys?
A: The kidneys have several functions, one of which is to keep a balance of water and minerals in the body, and to remove wastes from the blood. They also produce erythropoietin and calcitriol.
Q: What are some of the minerals that the kidneys help to balance in the body?
A: Some of the minerals that the kidneys help to balance include sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, and sulfate.
Q: Can dialysis replace all of the functions of the kidneys?
A: No, dialysis machines are not able to replace all of the functions of the kidneys, including the production of erythropoietin and calcitriol.
Q: Why is dialysis helpful in keeping the balance of minerals in the body?
A: Dialysis is helpful in keeping the balance of minerals in the body because it is able to remove wastes from the body and help keep the minerals in balance.
