What can be a consequence of insufficient ultrafiltration?

Insufficient ultrafiltration during dialysis can lead to fluid overload, which occurs when the removal of excess fluid from the blood is inadequate. When the body retains more fluid than it should, this can result in increased blood volume, placing additional strain on the cardiovascular system. As the heart works harder to pump this increased volume, it can lead to the development of hypertension, or elevated blood pressure.

Fluid overload can also manifest through symptoms such as swelling (edema), shortness of breath, and increased weight due to excess fluid retention. This underscores the importance of adequate ultrafiltration to help maintain optimal fluid balance for patients, particularly those with compromised kidney function who rely on dialysis to manage their fluid levels effectively.

In contrast, while dehydration and low blood pressure can have serious health implications, they are more commonly associated with excessive ultrafiltration rather than insufficient ultrafiltration. Electrolyte imbalances can occur due to a variety of factors but are not directly linked to the consequences of insufficient ultrafiltration. Improved patient comfort is generally not a consequence of insufficient ultrafiltration. In fact, patients may experience discomfort due to symptoms related to fluid overload.