RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS AND CHEST X-RAY ABNORMALITIES IN PATIENTS ON MAINTENANCE HAEMODIALYSIS

Abstract

Background: Patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis frequently experience respiratory complications due to fluid overload, uremic toxins, and coexisting comorbidities. These manifestations often remain under-recognised despite contributing significantly to morbidity. This study was undertaken to evaluate the spectrum of respiratory symptoms and chest radiographic abnormalities in patients receiving long-term haemodialysis. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and to correlate these findings with chest X-ray abnormalities in patients on maintenance haemodialysis. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 100 patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis at a tertiary care centre. Adult patients receiving haemodialysis for more than three months were included. Clinical evaluation focused on respiratory symptoms such as breathlessness, cough, and chest discomfort. All participants underwent chest radiography, and findings were categorised into pulmonary oedema, pleural effusion, cardiomegaly, consolidation, and normal patterns. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and associations were assessed using the chi-square test. Results: Among the 100 patients studied, 68% were males and 32% were females, with a mean age of 52.4 ± 11.6 years. Breathlessness was the most common symptom, reported in 64% of patients, followed by cough in 38% and chest pain in 22%. Chest X-ray abnormalities were observed in 72% of cases. The most frequent radiological finding was cardiomegaly (46%), followed by pulmonary oedema (34%), pleural effusion (28%), and consolidation (12%). Normal chest X-rays were seen in 28% of patients. A significant association was observed between breathlessness and pulmonary oedema (p < 0.01), as well as between pleural effusion and the presence of cough (p = 0.03). Patients with longer dialysis duration (>2 years) showed a higher prevalence of radiological abnormalities (81% vs. 63%, p = 0.04). Conclusion: Respiratory symptoms are highly prevalent among patients on maintenance haemodialysis and are often associated with identifiable chest X-ray abnormalities. Breathlessness and cardiopulmonary changes such as cardiomegaly and pulmonary oedema predominate. Routine respiratory assessment along with periodic chest imaging may aid in early detection and better management of these complications.