Kidney failure is a serious medical condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. Without proper treatment, harmful substances build up in the body and can become life-threatening.
Types of Kidney Failure
1. Acute Kidney Failure (AKI)
-
Sudden loss of kidney function (hours to days)
-
Often reversible if treated early
Common causes:
-
Severe dehydration
-
Infections or sepsis
-
Shock or low blood pressure
-
Certain medications (painkillers, antibiotics)
-
Urinary obstruction
2. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) / Chronic Kidney Failure
-
Gradual, irreversible loss of kidney function over months or years
-
May progress to End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
Common causes:
-
Diabetes (most common)
-
High blood pressure
-
Chronic glomerulonephritis
-
Polycystic kidney disease
-
Long-term drug or toxin exposure
Symptoms of Kidney Failure
Early stages (often mild or unnoticed)
-
Fatigue and weakness
-
Swelling of feet, ankles, or face
-
Frequent or reduced urination
-
Loss of appetite
-
Nausea
Advanced stages
-
Shortness of breath
-
Persistent itching
-
Muscle cramps
-
Confusion or drowsiness
-
Chest pain
-
Very little or no urine output