Kidneys filter extra fluid and waste from the body, so serious health issues can occur if they stop working. This can occur gradually through chronic kidney disease or suddenly with acute renal failure. Here’s a guide to spotting these conditions and treating the root causes. 

Symptoms

Renal failure often prevents the kidneys from filtering water and toxins from the body before it is removed, so patients often notice decreased urine output and swelling in the legs and feet due to fluid retention. Fatigue, nausea, confusion, and chest pain can also occur. 

Acute renal failure may cause symptoms to occur all at once, while chronic kidney disease causes a more gradual progression of symptoms. Symptoms vary dramatically, and some patients exhibit few signs, so a physical exam, blood tests, and biopsies are often necessary to diagnose this condition. 

Causes

Acute renal failure often occurs because of lack of blood flow or damage to the kidneys. For example, heart failure and coronary artery disease prevent blood from pumping through the body. Kidney stones and blood clots may also block access to the kidneys. 

Chronic kidney disease often occurs alongside other chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. These conditions cause extra fluid and protein in the bloodstream, so they can make it difficult for the kidneys to filter these extra materials, and they may become less efficient over time, eventually leading to renal failure. 

Treatment Options

Acute renal failure is often treated by addressing the root cause. For example, if blood flow to the kidneys is stopped due to infection, treating the infection can often restore full kidney function. 

For chronic kidney disease or kidneys that have been permanently damaged, dialysis may be necessary to remove excess water and toxins from the blood since the kidneys cannot process these materials efficiently. If kidney function has been reduced to 10% or less, a kidney transplant may be necessary.

If you’re looking for treatment options for chronic or acute renal failure, contact Mt Auburn Nephrology in Cincinnati. The full-service nephrology clinic offers an array of treatments and services to address the root cause or specific symptoms to best serve each patient’s unique health needs. Visit the website to see a full list of services. To request an appointment, call (513) 841-0222.