Kidney failure occurs when the nephrons in the kidney become damaged, causing them to lose their ability to filter properly. When referring to kidney failure it is important to note that there are two categories of kidney failure: acute kidney failure and chronic kidney disease. Acute kidney failure occurs quickly, such as in the instances of sudden trauma to the kidneys, excessive blood loss, poison or the use of certain drugs, according to the National Institutes of Health. Chronic kidney disease is the gradual loss of kidney function as a result of a disease or condition that has impaired kidney function for a number of month or years. It is the most common precursor to kidney failure and can be caused by a number of underlying conditions.
Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease. Diabetes is a disease that inhibits the body from utilizing glucose properly. Because the glucose is not being used for energy, it remains in the blood. This excess glucose in the blood requires the kidneys to work harder, thus damaging the nephrons over time and leading to kidney failure. This condition is referred to as diabetic kidney disease.
High Blood Pressure
Chronic high blood pressure causes a large amount of strain on blood vessels in the body. When left untreated, high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels and nephrons in the kidney. If the nephrons become damaged, they can no longer filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. This waste and excess fluid will remain in the blood which further increases blood pressure. As blood pressure continues to rise, more damage is caused to the kidneys, according to the American Association of Kidney Patients. This kidney damage can lead to kidney failure.
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis encompasses a group of different kidney diseases and is the third most common precursor to kidney failure, according to the National Kidney Foundation. The diseases included under this category cause inflammation of the glomeruli and filtration units in both kidneys, which causes blood and protein to be excreted with urine. Glomerulonephritis is a slow, progressive disease that can lead to kidney failure.
Inherited Disorders
There are also hereditary factors that can lead to kidney failure. Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited disorder that causes the growth of cysts in the kidneys. The cysts are filled with fluid, gas or tissue, according to the American Association of Kidney Patients. These cysts overcome the kidneys and damage the surrounding tissue and can lead to kidney failure. Improper development in the womb, such as a narrowing of tubules, can also lead to kidney disease.
