Does Dialysis Cause Twitching

Dialysis is a renal replacement for end stage renal disease (ESRD) and it can help sustain patients’ life expectancy. But dialysis also brings many complications and twitching is one of the common complications in dialysis treatment. Well then, how does dialysis cause twitching?

Twitching can be caused by the following factors:

1. Much fluid is removed by dialysis

When lots of fluid is removed during dialysis treatment, the patient’s body weight will be lower than dry weight. In this condition, it can cause muscle twitching.

2. Low-sodium dialyzate is used

If low sodium dialyzate is used, it will lower sodium levels rapidly. Thus, the blood vessels in muscle will contract and muscles can not get enough blood supply, thus leading to muscle twitching. Twitching can be alleviated by increasing the sodium concentration of the dialysate.

3. Electrolyte disorder

One of the kidney functions is to filter the excessive electrolytes and keep its balance in the body. Once kidneys are damaged, kidneys are unable to perform this function properly. In this way, electrolyte disorder occurs. Muscle tissue relies on a range of minerals, electrolytes and other chemicals to contract and relax. As a result, the failed kidneys may cause muscle cramps.

How to treat muscle twitching in dialysis?

1. Drink fluids and electrolytes

Water and electrolytes can help you replenish a decreased supply. Sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium are needed for your muscles to adequately contract and relax.

2. Rest the affected muscles

Rest your muscles after the spasm. Soreness is common after spasms. Your muscles may be strained and should get some time to recover without additional stress.

3. Improve kidney function

If kidney function can be improved, dialysis frequency can be reduced or even dialysis can be eliminated. How can kidney function be improved? You can have a try of Chinese Medicine Treatment. The active ingredients in Chinese Medicines can permeate into kidney lesion directly and have the functions of dilate blood vessels, prevent inflammation and coagulation, degrade extracellular matrix and provide nutrients for damaged kidneys. Gradually kidney function can be improved. Only in this way can side effects of dialysis like muscle twitching be alleviated from the root.