Acute renal failure, also known as acute kidney injury (AKI), refers to a sudden and severe loss of kidney function. This condition is characterized by a rapid decline in the kidneys' ability to filter waste products, excess fluids, and electrolytes from the blood.
Acute renal failure can be caused by various factors, including decreased blood flow to the kidneys (such as in cases of severe dehydration or low blood pressure), direct kidney damage (such as from infections, medications, or toxins), or impaired urine flow (such as from kidney stones or enlarged prostate). The condition can affect people of all ages and can develop rapidly over hours to days.
When the kidneys are not functioning properly, waste products and fluids can accumulate in the body, leading to a range of symptoms. These may include decreased urine output, swelling in the legs and ankles, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, confusion, and chest pain. If left untreated, acute renal failure can become life-threatening.
Diagnosis of acute renal failure typically involves blood and urine tests to evaluate kidney function, as well as imaging studies to identify potential causes. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, managing complications, and providing supportive care to the kidneys. This may entail intravenous fluids, medications to manage blood pressure and electrolyte balance, and in some cases, dialysis to temporarily take over the filtering function of the kidneys until they recover.
With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many cases of acute renal failure can be reversed and kidney function can be restored. However, some cases may progress to chronic kidney disease if not managed effectively.
