What is the primary goal of hemodialysis treatment for CKD patients?

The primary goal of hemodialysis treatment for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is to remove waste products from the blood. As kidney function declines, the kidneys become less effective at filtering out toxins and excess fluids, which can lead to serious health complications. Hemodialysis serves as an artificial filtration process that effectively cleanses the blood by removing these harmful substances, including urea, creatinine, and excess electrolytes.

This process helps to manage symptoms of kidney failure and can stabilize the patient's condition, allowing them to maintain a better quality of life. By performing this essential function of waste removal, hemodialysis helps to prevent complications associated with the accumulation of toxins, such as nausea, fatigue, and fluid overload, which can further lead to cardiovascular issues.

Other options mentioned, such as enhancing physical appearance or increasing muscle mass, are not primary objectives of hemodialysis. While maintaining some level of kidney function is important, it is already compromised in patients requiring dialysis, making waste removal the focal point of treatment.