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A condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood. Kidney failure can be acute (sudden) or chronic (gradual). It can lead to serious complications, such as anemia, bone loss, and heart disease. Kidney failure requires treatment with dialysis or a kidney transplant and it can have various causes, symptoms, and treatments. Here are some key points to know about kidney failure:
- Acute kidney failure (AKF) can occur due to low blood flow, inflammation, blockage, or injury to the kidneys. It can often be reversed with proper treatment.
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can occur due to diabetes, high blood pressure, or other long-term conditions that damage the kidneys over time. It can lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.
- Some common symptoms of kidney failure are swelling, fatigue, nausea, changes in urine output, and shortness of breath. However, symptoms may not appear until the later stages of kidney disease.
- The diagnosis of kidney failure is based on blood tests, urine tests, imaging tests, and kidney biopsy. These tests measure the level of creatinine, albumin, and other substances in the blood and urine, as well as the size, shape, and function of the kidneys.
- The treatment of kidney failure depends on the type, stage, and cause of the condition. Some treatments include medications, dietary changes, dialysis, and kidney transplant. The goal of treatment is to slow down the progression of kidney damage, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications.
- The prevention of kidney failure involves managing the risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Some preventive measures include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and avoiding nephrotoxic drugs.
