Defining Kidney Failure and How to Treat It?

Answer 1

The main function of the kidneys is to filter and eliminate toxins from the body including waste, excess fluids, salt and other potentially harmful materials from the body. When a patient goes into kidney failure, also known as renal failure, these toxins can build up in the body and can lead to serious health complications, resulting in possible death if left untreated.

Kidney failure may take only a few hours to occur in chronically ill patients and is often referred to as acute. This may require long term if not lifelong therapy for those currently dealing with other existing health issues. However, a person of general good health may completely recover from this condition.

When going into kidney failure, a patient may experience decreased urination, swelling in the legs and ankles, fatigue, nausea and vomiting and confusion. Severe cases may lead to seizures and coma. It is also possible for a patient not to exhibit any obvious symptoms or signs of kidney failure in which case the condition may discovered during routine testing for other ailments.

There are many diseases and disorders that may lead to kidney failure including cirrhosis of the liver, certain cancers, kidney stones and lupus. Diabetics are also at risk for developing kidney failure as well as those who have experienced severe trauma or are critically dehydrated. Certain medications have also been linked to renal failure including chemotherapy drugs.

After a patient suffers from kidney failure, it will most likely be necessary to remain hospitalized until the organs recover and the physician can determine the cause and further treatment options if necessary.

Treatment is determined by the underlying cause of the kidney failure and can range from simple lifestyle changes and prescription medications to temporary or regular dialysis. A physician may also recommend a strict diet change reducing the amount of potassium and salt as kidneys that are damaged or unable to recover from acute failure will be unable to process these from the body.