Acute Kidney Failure

Kidneys balance the composition of the blood by filtering waste from blood like salts, extra fluids and other substances. They maintain a perfect balance of electrolytes like sodium, potassium  and phosphate.  A kidney also contributes in the making of hormones that facilitate regulation of blood pressure, making of red blood cells and keeping the bones strong.

Acute kidney failure leads to sudden loss of kidney function. In contrast to chronic renal failure this is temporary.

Types and Causes

Pre-Renal

This is the most common type of condition found in 60-70 per cent of cases. If the blood flow is not in proper quantities to the kidney due to maybe very low blood pressure as a result of hemorrhage, septic shock, serious illness, injury then kidneys cannot filter blood effectively. This may also be due to heart failure, liver failure or blockage to the blood vessel carrying blood to the kidney. Another important factor is dehydration due to vomiting, diarrhoea or blood loss.

Post Renal

This failure may occur once the urine is produced and there is obstruction in its flow from the kidney. Most common reason may be cancer in the urinary tract , prostate in men, abdomen or pelvis that push on the ureter.  

Renal Failure

This is caused when there is damage to the kidney. It may be in the units (glomeruli) or the tubules leading from the glomeruli. The damage may be caused by an auto immune disease, infection, cancer and some medications or nephrotoxins. Kidney diseases (glomerulonephritis and nephrotic diseases, such as membranous nephropathy) can also cause this as well as well as chronic renal failure.

The causes: The Signs and Symptoms

You may experience swelling in lower half of your body - legs, ankles and feet

Shortness of breath

Drowsiness

Fatigue

Confusion

Decreased urine output although occasionally urine output remains normal

Chest Pain or Pressure

Nausea

Seizures or coma in severe cases

Treatment at Aastha Kidney Hospital

Timely treatment of the above symptoms is very important to restore normal working of the kidney. Some causes of kidney failure are treatable and the kidney function may return to normal. Unfortunately, kidney failure may be progressive in other situations and may be irreversible. Aastha Kidney Hospital, Ludhiana is renowned for having the latest equipment, lasers and treatment technology in the world in its department of Urology and Nephrology.