Peritoneal Dialysis: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When your kidneys can’t do their job anymore, peritoneal dialysis, a type of kidney replacement therapy that uses the lining of your abdomen to filter blood. Also known as PD, it lets you manage kidney failure without needing to visit a clinic three times a week. Unlike hemodialysis, which uses a machine outside your body, peritoneal dialysis happens inside you—using your own peritoneal membrane as a natural filter. It’s not a cure, but for many, it’s a way to live more normally while waiting for a transplant or managing long-term kidney disease.

This treatment is often chosen by people who want more control over their schedule. You can do it at home, while sleeping, or even while traveling. It’s especially helpful for those with heart problems or unstable blood pressure, since it’s gentler on the body than traditional dialysis. But it’s not for everyone. You need to be able to follow strict hygiene rules—because an infection in your abdomen can turn dangerous fast. The most common complication? Peritonitis. That’s why every step, from washing your hands to connecting the tubing, matters.

People on peritoneal dialysis often need to track fluid intake, salt, and protein levels closely. Many also take medications to control blood pressure, anemia, or bone health—issues that come with kidney failure. You might be surprised to learn that some of the same drugs used for other conditions, like metformin, a common diabetes medication that can affect vitamin B12 levels, need careful monitoring when your kidneys aren’t working right. And if you’re on multiple meds, you’ll want to keep a medication journal, a simple log to track how your body reacts to each drug—especially when switching between brands or generics.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just theory. It’s real-world advice from people who’ve lived with kidney disease, pharmacists who manage their meds, and doctors who’ve seen what works—and what doesn’t. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes, recognize warning signs like swelling or fever, and understand why some drugs are safer than others when your kidneys are failing. Whether you’re just starting out or have been on PD for years, these guides give you the tools to stay safe, stay informed, and take charge of your care.