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Dialysis

UK //daɪˈæləsɪs//US //daɪˈæləsɪs//

Definition

A medical treatment that removes waste and excess fluid from the blood when kidneys fail.

In simple words: A treatment for people whose kidneys are not working well.

Examples

  • The patient requires dialysis to filter waste from their blood.
  • After being diagnosed with kidney failure, she started dialysis three times a week.
  • Dialysis can help patients live longer when their kidneys do not function properly.
  • There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
  • The clinic provides dialysis treatment for individuals with chronic kidney disease.

Usage notes

Mostly used in medical contexts. Appropriate in discussions about health but may be too technical for casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone medical term

Memory hint

Think of 'dialing' the kidneys to filter blood, like a dial on a machine.

Collocations

  • start dialysis
  • dialysis machine
  • dialysis treatment
  • undergo dialysis

Synonyms

  • hemodialysis
  • peritoneal dialysis
  • renal replacement therapy

Common mistakes

  • Pronounced incorrectly; often mispronounced as 'di-al-isis'.
  • Confused with 'analysis' due to similar sound.
  • Misunderstood as a type of medication rather than a treatment process.