Acute Renal Dysfunction
Understanding Acute Renal Dysfunction
Acute renal dysfunction, also known as acute kidney injury or acute kidney failure, is a sudden and sometimes fatal medical condition in which the kidneys fail to correctly remove waste products from the blood. It is a major contributing factor to the increasing mortality rate in the elderly and is a significant cause of hospitalization in the United States. Acute renal dysfunction can be caused by a variety of conditions, including dehydration, infection, trauma, heart attack, diabetes, bladder blockage, and certain medications.
Symptoms of Acute Renal Dysfunction
Symptoms of acute renal dysfunction include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Decreased urine output
- Muscle cramps
- Fluid retention
- Decreased urine concentration
- Swelling of the ankles and feet
- Itching
- Reduced appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of consciousness
Treatments for Acute Renal Dysfunction
The goal of treatment for acute renal dysfunction is to reverse the underlying cause and restore normal kidney function. Treatment may include medications to reduce inflammation, pain, and other symptoms, as well as fluid replacement therapy to quickly rehydrate the patient and help prevent further kidney damage. Dialysis may also be required if the patient's kidneys are not able to maintain adequate levels of fluid and electrolytes. In severe cases, a kidney transplant may be necessary.
Preventing Acute Renal Dysfunction
The best way to prevent acute renal dysfunction is to maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet. It is also important to get regular check-ups from a doctor and to be aware of any underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension. It is also important to monitor any medications taken for those conditions, as some can increase the risk of acute renal dysfunction. If you experience any of the symptoms of acute renal dysfunction, it is important to seek medical help immediately.