A Study to Assess the Risk Factors and Symptoms of Dialysis Disequilibrium Syndrome among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

Year : 2026 | Volume : 16 | 01 | Page :
    By

    Aaqib Farooq,

  1. Student, Department of Dialysis Technology, Rayat Bahra University, Kharar, Punjab, India

Abstract

Dialysis Disequilibrium Syndrome (DDS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening neurological complication associated with hemodialysis, particularly during initiation or in high-risk patients. It is characterized by a spectrum of neurological manifestations ranging from mild symptoms such as headache and nausea to severe outcomes including seizures, coma, and death. Early identification of risk factors and prompt recognition of symptoms are crucial to prevent morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed to assess the risk factors and symptoms of DDS among patients undergoing hemodialysis and to determine the relationship between risk factors, clinical manifestations, and selected demographic and clinical variables. A quantitative descriptive research design was adopted. The study was conducted in the dialysis unit, intensive care unit, and emergency department of a tertiary care hospital. A total of 60 patients undergoing hemodialysis were selected using convenience sampling based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected using a structured tool consisting of demographic variables, clinical variables, a DDS risk assessment screen, the Modified Early Warning System (MEWS), and a clinical symptom checklist. Continuous assessment was performed during intradialysis and for one hour post-dialysis. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that a majority of patients exhibited moderate risk for DDS during intradialysis and low risk during the post-dialysis period. Mild to moderate symptoms were commonly observed, including headache, restlessness, and altered levels of awareness. A statistically significant positive correlation was identified between DDS risk factors and symptom severity during intradialysis (r = 0.501, p = 0.001). Pre-existing neurological abnormalities showed a significant association with DDS risk (p < 0.05)., The study concludes that systematic risk assessment and vigilant monitoring during hemodialysis can facilitate early detection of DDS and help prevent severe neurological complications.

Keywords: Dialysis Disequilibrium Syndrome, Hemodialysis, Risk Factors, Neurological Symptoms, Modified Early Warning System

How to cite this article:
Aaqib Farooq. A Study to Assess the Risk Factors and Symptoms of Dialysis Disequilibrium Syndrome among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis. Research and Reviews : A Journal of Life Sciences. 2026; 16(01):-.
How to cite this URL:
Aaqib Farooq. A Study to Assess the Risk Factors and Symptoms of Dialysis Disequilibrium Syndrome among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis. Research and Reviews : A Journal of Life Sciences. 2026; 16(01):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjols/article=2026/view=243841


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Ahead of Print Subscription Original Research
Volume 16
01
Received 22/11/2025
Accepted 30/12/2025
Published 01/01/2026
Publication Time 40 Days
52

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