What is a common complication associated with hemodialysis?

Hypotension is a common complication associated with hemodialysis, primarily due to the rapid removal of fluid and electrolytes from the body during the treatment process. During hemodialysis, blood is pumped through a dialyzer that removes waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which can lead to a decrease in blood volume. This significant reduction in fluid can cause a drop in blood pressure, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.

Moreover, hypotension during hemodialysis can provoke complications like cramping and nausea, which may further complicate the treatment. Careful monitoring of fluid status and blood pressure throughout the treatment session is crucial to minimizing the risk of these episodes and ensuring patient safety.

Other potential complications exist with hemodialysis, but hypotension is particularly common due to the intricacies of fluid management during the procedure.