For many people living with kidney failure, dialysis is a vital and life-sustaining treatment. However, it can also come with challenging side effects, including fatigue, drops in blood pressure, headaches and a general feeling of being unwell after sessions. Over time, these effects can take a real toll on both physical health and emotional wellbeing.
A new research study in Manchester is exploring whether a medical device could help reduce some of these side effects, with the aim of making dialysis treatment more tolerable for patients.
What is this study about?
The study, led by a research team at the NIHR Manchester Clinical Research Facility, is testing a device designed to help stabilise patients during dialysis. The device is intended to reduce the physical stress that dialysis can place on the body, particularly on the heart and circulation.
The researchers have now recruited the first patient into the study, marking an important early milestone. By carefully monitoring how patients respond, the team hopes to learn whether the device can safely reduce common dialysis-related symptoms.
Why this matters for kidney patients
While dialysis saves lives, many patients describe it as exhausting and disruptive to daily life. Side effects can make it harder to recover between sessions, limit independence, and affect quality of life.
Research that focuses on improving the dialysis experience — not just keeping people alive — is particularly important. Even small improvements in how patients feel during and after treatment can make a meaningful difference.
A realistic and cautious view
This study is still at an early stage. The device is being carefully tested to understand whether it is safe and effective, and it is not part of standard dialysis care. It may take time before researchers know whether it could be used more widely.
However, studies like this reflect a growing recognition that patient comfort, wellbeing and long-term health matter just as much as clinical outcomes.
At MRIKPA, we continue to follow research that aims to improve everyday experiences for people living with kidney disease, and we share updates to help patients and families stay informed.
You can read the original article here:
You may also find it helpful to explore our information on:
https://mrikpa.org.uk/about-dialysis
https://mrikpa.org.uk/patient-info
A new Manchester study is exploring whether a medical device could help reduce some of the side effects experienced by people receiving dialysis.
