If you’ve recently been told you need dialysis—or you’re supporting someone who has—it can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot of medical jargon, a lot of appointments, and frankly, a lot of emotions. Whether you’re brand new to life with chronic kidney disease or just trying to understand what dialysis means in practical terms, this guide breaks it all down in a way that’s simple, clear, and reassuring.
Living in France with a serious condition like kidney failure can be stressful enough, especially if you’re navigating the healthcare system in a second language. But knowledge really is power—and knowing what to expect makes everything that little bit easier. So, let’s dive in.
What Is Dialysis?
Dialysis is a treatment used when your kidneys are no longer able to do their job: filtering waste, toxins, and excess fluids from your blood. There are two main types:
- Hemodialysis – the most common type, where your blood is cleaned using a machine.
- Peritoneal dialysis – a home-based method that uses the lining of your abdomen to filter waste.
These treatments help your body get rid of the waste products (like urea and creatinine) and fluids that your kidneys can no longer manage on their own.
Why Do I Need Dialysis?
When your kidneys stop working properly, waste and fluid begin to build up in your body. Normally, we get rid of these through urine—but if your kidneys are failing, this natural process slows down or stops altogether. This can lead to symptoms like:
- Puffiness in the face
- Swelling in the legs and ankles (oedema)
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling tired or generally unwell
Dialysis becomes necessary when your glomerular filtration rate (GFR)—a key measure of kidney function—drops below a certain level. Your doctor will decide when it’s time, based on your symptoms and blood test results. And importantly, this decision is always made with your consent.
So, What Actually Happens During Hemodialysis?
Before starting hemodialysis, a fistula is usually created in your arm. This is a minor surgery that joins an artery to a vein, creating a strong access point with high blood flow. This “access site” is where your blood will be drawn and returned during treatment. It can take time for the fistula to mature, so it’s often created in advance.
This method is preferred because it’s reliable, durable, and lowers the risk of infection.
Once your fistula (the special access point created in your arm) has matured and is ready for use, you’ll begin your hemodialysis sessions, typically at a hospital or dialysis center. Some patients, depending on their condition and support system, may eventually be able to do dialysis at home with training and supervision.
Here’s what to expect:
1. Getting Settled
You’ll be welcomed into the dialysis unit and guided to a comfortable chair. A nurse will clean the area around your fistula and gently insert two needles—one to draw your blood out and the other to return it once it’s been filtered.
Don’t worry—this part gets easier with time, and numbing creams or sprays can be used if needed.
2. Blood Cleansing Begins
Your blood flows out through the first needle into the dialysis machine, where it passes through a special filter called a dialyzer. This filter acts like an artificial kidney, removing waste, toxins, and extra fluid from your blood.
The clean blood is then returned to your body through the second needle.
The whole process is painless, although you’ll be connected to the machine for around 4 hours per session, typically three times a week. You can bring a book, watch a show, take a nap, or simply rest—many people use this time to unwind.
3. Monitoring Throughout
During the session, the care team will regularly check your blood pressure, heart rate, and overall well-being. The machine is also closely monitored to make sure everything’s running smoothly.
If you feel dizzy, crampy, or uncomfortable, you just need to let the nurse know—they’re there to help.
4. After the Session
Once the treatment is complete, the needles are carefully removed, and your arm will be bandaged. You’ll rest for a few minutes to ensure you feel well enough to go.
Some people feel tired afterward, while others bounce back quickly. It’s a good idea to keep your day relatively light after a session until you know how your body reacts.
Hemodialysis Is a Lifesaving Routine
While it may seem daunting at first, many people adjust well to the rhythm of dialysis. It becomes part of a new routine—one that’s keeping you alive and helping you feel better.
Most importantly, you’re not alone in this. Your healthcare team is there to support you, and at Hello Santé, we can help you understand appointments, medical paperwork, treatment options, and the logistics involved—especially if French isn’t your strong suit.
Need help setting up your care in France? We’re just an email away.