Dialysis involves risks and potential complications. Complications may become serious in some cases. In addition, dialysis does not replace all the functions of healthy kidneys. Some complications of kidney failure will need ongoing monitoring and treatment. Complications of dialysis and kidney failure include: Anemia, a low number of red blood cells. Healthy kidneys produce the hormone erythropoietin, (EPO). EPO stimulates your body to make red blood cells. Diseased kidneys often don't make enough EPO. Dialysis patients may need to take synthetic EPO. Blood clot that develops in the vascular access, requiring surgical revision. Dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA), a complication where proteins in the blood build up on joints and tendons. This causes pain, stiffness, and fluid in the joints. Dialysis is less effective in filtering out these harmful proteins than healthy kidneys. It is common in people who need dialysis for more than five years. Infection, including peritonitis (an infection of the abdomen). Peritonitis is a risk of peritoneal dialysis. Low blood pressure, which generally goes away after you get used to dialysis treatments Renal osteodystrophy, which causes bones to become thin and weak or form incorrectly Reducing your risk of complications You can reduce the risk of certain complications by following your treatment plan and: Following activity, dietary and lifestyle restrictions and recommendations before your procedure and during recovery Notifying your doctor or care team immediately of any concerns, such as fever, pain, weakness, dizziness, or changes in the way you feel Performing or going to your dialysis treatments as often and as long as recommended Taking your medications exactly as directed Using proper clean technique when performing peritoneal dialysis