You could have problems with your vascular access, which is the most common reason for hospitalization for people on hemodialysis. Any type of vascular access may

• become infected
• have poor blood flow or blockage from a blood clot

These problems can keep your treatments from working. You may need to have more procedures to replace or repair your access for it to work properly.

Rapid changes in your body’s water and chemical balance during treatment can cause other problems as well. Muscle cramps and sudden hypotension –a drop in blood pressure–are two common side effects. Hypotension can make you feel weak, dizzy, or sick to your stomach. Your doctor can make changes to your dialysis solution prescription, which can treat these problems.

You may need a few months to adjust to hemodialysis. You should always report problems to your doctor and dialysis staff so they can treat your side effects quickly and easily. You can prevent many side effects if you follow a proper diet, limit your salt and liquid intake, and follow your doctor’s instructions for taking your medicines.