What is a common complication that dialysis patients may face?

What is a common complication that dialysis patients may face?

• A. Increased appetite
• B. Hypotension
• C. Improved kidney function
• D. Weight gain

Answer: (B)

Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is a common complication that dialysis patients may face. During hemodialysis, there is significant fluid removal from the bloodstream. If this fluid removal occurs too quickly or if the patient has underlying issues such as heart conditions or sensitivity to fluid shifts, blood pressure can drop significantly. Symptoms may include dizziness, fainting, and a general feeling of weakness, making it a critical condition to monitor and manage during the dialysis treatment process. The other options do not accurately represent common complications. Increased appetite and improved kidney function are not typical outcomes for patients undergoing dialysis, as many experience a reduced appetite and do not regain kidney function. Weight gain can occur, particularly if patients retain fluid; however, this is not as direct a complication from the dialysis treatment as hypotension is.

Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is a common complication that dialysis patients may face. During hemodialysis, there is significant fluid removal from the bloodstream. If this fluid removal occurs too quickly or if the patient has underlying issues such as heart conditions or sensitivity to fluid shifts, blood pressure can drop significantly. Symptoms may include dizziness, fainting, and a general feeling of weakness, making it a critical condition to monitor and manage during the dialysis treatment process.

The other options do not accurately represent common complications. Increased appetite and improved kidney function are not typical outcomes for patients undergoing dialysis, as many experience a reduced appetite and do not regain kidney function. Weight gain can occur, particularly if patients retain fluid; however, this is not as direct a complication from the dialysis treatment as hypotension is.