ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Aluminium toxicity in people on dialysis

Okay kiddo, let me tell you about aluminium toxicity in people who have to go through dialysis.

Our body needs a mineral called aluminium, but taking too much of this mineral is not good for us. Dialysis is a treatment for people whose kidneys do not work properly, and their body cannot get rid of excess amounts of minerals. People on dialysis are more likely to have high levels of aluminium in their blood because the dialysis machine may not be good at removing it.

High levels of aluminium can cause problems in the brain, bones, and other organs. It can lead to dementia, memory loss, bone weakness and even anemia. So doctors have to be careful to make sure that people on dialysis are not getting too much of this mineral.

Sometimes doctors may prescribe a medication called a chelating agent that helps remove excess aluminium from the body. They may also suggest avoiding food or drinks that have high levels of aluminium, like aluminum cookware or certain antacids.

So, in summary, people on dialysis need to watch their aluminium levels to make sure they don't have too much of this mineral in their body, which can lead to health problems in different organs, especially the brain and bones. A chelating agent or avoiding certain foods can help.