Knowledge of Acute Kidney Injury: Causes, Signs, and Care

 

Kidney disease, also known as renal disease or nephropathy, refers to a condition in which the kidneys are damaged or unable to function properly. Filtering waste materials and extra fluid from the blood, controlling blood pressure, and preserving the body's electrolyte balance are all important functions of the kidneys. When the kidneys are affected by the disease, their ability to perform these functions is impaired.

There are various types and causes of kidney disease, including:

1. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): This is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time. Common causes of chronic kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney's filtering units), and polycystic kidney disease (a genetic disorder causing the growth of cysts in the kidneys).

2. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Acute kidney injury occurs suddenly and is often caused by factors such as severe dehydration, blood loss, infections, medications, or a blockage in the urinary tract. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to prevent further damage and aid recovery.

3. Glomerular Diseases: These conditions affect the glomeruli, which are the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys responsible for filtering waste. Glomerulonephritis and nephrotic syndrome are examples of glomerular diseases.

4. Kidney Stones: Kidney stones are solid masses formed from crystals that separate from the urine. They can cause severe pain and may obstruct the urinary tract, leading to complications and kidney damage.

Kidney disease Symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause and stage of the condition. Common signs and symptoms include fatigue, fluid retention, changes in urination patterns (increased or decreased urine output, foamy urine, blood in urine), swelling in the legs and ankles, persistent itching, high blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances.

Kidney diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and various kidney function tests such as blood tests (e.g., creatinine, blood urea nitrogen), urine tests, imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan), and sometimes kidney biopsy.

Kidney problems treatment aims to manage the underlying cause, slow down the progression of the disease, and alleviate the symptoms of kidney disease. The specific treatment approach may include lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet changes, weight management, exercise), and medications to control blood pressure and manage complications. The progression of kidney disease can be slowed down by treatment for a chronic medical condition.