How can dialysis disequilibrium syndrome be prevented?

Dialysis disequilibrium syndrome (DDS) primarily occurs due to a rapid shift of solutes, particularly urea, from the blood into the dialysate during a dialysis session. This sudden change can cause neurological symptoms due to cerebral edema. To effectively prevent DDS, it is essential to initiate dialysis gently and manage fluid removal carefully.

Beginning dialysis treatment gradually helps the body adapt to changes in fluid and solute levels, reducing the risk of rapid diffusion that could lead to DDS. In practice, this often involves careful monitoring and adjustments to the dialysis parameters, like time, blood flow rate, and dialysate composition, ensuring a more stable state during treatment.

Other options, such as increasing dialysis frequency or using higher doses of medication, do not directly address the fundamental issue of solute imbalance and rapid changes in blood composition that lead to DDS. Encouraging physical activity, while beneficial for overall health, does not significantly impact the prevention of dialysis disequilibrium syndrome during treatment. Therefore, a careful approach to fluid removal and a gradual initiation of dialysis are key strategies in preventing this syndrome.