Clinical information
Kidney failure, sometimes referred to as renal failure, is the state in which the kidneys' functions decline. These functions include:
- Filtering and getting rid of waste and excess fluid from the bloodstream
- The production of hormones that control our blood pressure
- The production of hormones that help with the production of red blood cells
- The regulation of electrolyte balance
The decline of these functions can lead to urine problems, loss of appetite, fatigue despite not having done anything strenuous, muscle cramps, and lower back pain, to mention a few.
It can also have consequences if not addressed as soon as possible, such as gout, anemia, heart problems, nerve damage, and more.
Acute kidney failure is the sudden loss of kidney function. It is often caused by another problem, such as taking too much of certain drugs, bacterial infections, or dehydration. The effects of this kind of kidney failure can be reversed if the underlying cause is addressed.
Chronic kidney failure (chronic kidney disease) is the slow, gradual decline of the kidneys' functions over the years. Underlying conditions also cause this, but are likely more severe than the causes of acute kidney failure. Examples include diabetes, polycystic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure.
If chronic kidney disease isn't addressed, it can lead to end-stage renal failure, which could end the patient's life. Relying on dialysis and kidney transplants is the only way to help those at this stage.
