It is the condition in which the kidneys cannot perform their normal functions. The kidneys undertake tasks such as maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body and expelling harmful wastes and excess fluids. What is kidney failure?? It occurs as a result of the deterioration of these functions. There are generally two main types: acute failure and chronic failure.
Kidney Failure Symptoms
It occurs when the kidneys cannot perform their functions adequately. It manifests itself with various symptoms. These symptoms may vary depending on the degree of damage to the kidneys and the type of failure.
When the kidneys don't produce enough urine, fluid retention can occur. This can manifest as swelling in the ankles, legs, or hands.
Changes such as decreased urine volume, darkening of urine color, or blood in the urine may occur. Also, foamy urine may be a sign of protein leakage.
It causes toxins to build up in the body, which often manifests itself as fatigue, weakness, and a general lack of energy.
The kidneys not being able to perform their functions causes nausea and vomiting. The accumulation of toxins in the body can trigger such digestive problems.
Deteriorating kidney function can cause loss of appetite and vomiting. There may also be a metallic taste in the mouth. Fluid accumulation can put pressure on the lungs, causing shortness of breath. This is especially noticeable at night when lying down.
In the event of acute insufficiency, brain functions may be affected, which may lead to confusion, restlessness, or sleep disturbances.
It is important to see a healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
What is Kidney Failure and What are its Causes?
It is the condition in which the kidneys are unable to perform their duties effectively in the body. These duties include important functions such as removing harmful wastes and excess fluids from the body through urine. In addition, maintaining electrolyte balance and maintaining acid-base balance are among these functions. Kidney failureis evaluated in two main types: acute and chronic.
- It usually develops suddenly, over a few hours or days. The main causes of acute failure include:
- Excessive fluid loss in the body leads to insufficient blood flow to the kidneys.
- Long-term high blood pressure can cause kidney damage.
- Septic shock or severe infections impair kidney function.
- In particular, some medications and harmful chemicals can damage the kidneys.
- It develops slowly over years and is usually irreversible. The main causes of chronic failure are:
- High blood sugar levels can cause permanent damage to the kidneys.
- Prolonged high blood pressure impairs kidney function.
- Inflammation of the glomeruli, the filtering units of the kidneys, leads to failure.
- It is a genetic disease that causes cysts to form in the kidneys and kidney functions to deteriorate.
These causes can prevent the kidneys from working effectively and lead to various health problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow or stop the progression of kidney failure.
Kidney Failure Treatment Methods
The failure of the kidneys to perform their functions leads to the accumulation of harmful wastes and excess fluids in the body. Treatment methods may vary depending on the type and severity of the failure. Here are the main treatment methods:
In the early stages, it can usually be managed with medications. Medication may be used to control underlying causes, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Diuretics (water pills) and phosphate-binding drugs may also be prescribed to support kidney function.
Special diets are recommended. These diets usually include foods that are low in sodium, low in potassium, and low in protein. Fluid intake may also need to be restricted. Nutritionists create customized diet plans based on individual needs.
In advanced stages, dialysis (blood purification) treatment may be required. Hemodialysis cleans the blood with a machine. Peritoneal dialysis replaces fluids through a catheter placed in the abdominal cavity.
In the final stage, a kidney transplant may be the most effective solution. In this procedure, a healthy kidney is taken from a donor and transplanted into the patient's body. After the transplant, immune system suppressants are used to prevent rejection of the organ.
What is kidney failure? and its treatment should be directed by a specialist nephrologist. Early diagnosis and regular follow-up increase the effectiveness of the treatment process and can slow down the progression of the disease.
