Normal functioning kidneys filter the blood, removing waste as well as excess fluid and electrolytes. Acute kidney disease, or acute kidney failure, develops very rapidly and is defined as the sudden loss of kidney function, according to the Mayo Clinic. Acute kidney failure can occur within hours or days, depending on whether the kidneys are damaged from a sudden injury from an accident or by underlying conditions. Kidney failure is very serious and can be fatal, but is usually reversible with medical treatment.
Symptoms
According to the Merck Manual, the initial signs of acute kidney failure are weight gain and peripheral edema, or swelling of the limbs. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss and nausea. Bloody stools, fatigue and bruising easily may also occur. As waste products build up in the blood, more serious symptoms such as decreased sensation in hands and feet, mental status changes and seizures are possible.
Causes
A large amount of blood loss, heart attacks, heart disease, certain infections, anaphylaxis (allergic reaction) or certain medications can cause a lack of blood flow to the kidneys, leading to acute renal failure, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other conditions such as infections, blood clots, glomerulonephritis (kidney disorder), lupus and multiple myeloma (bone marrow cancer) can damage the kidneys, also causing acute renal failure. Also, if urine flow is blocked, acute renal failure can occur, whether the blockage is from tumors in the general urinary area, an enlarged prostate or blood clots in the urinary tract.
Diagnosis
An elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine level, as well as decreased urine output, may sometimes cause medical professionals to suspect acute renal failure, according to the Merck Manual. Other tests such as urinary sediment, urinary diagnostic indices, blood count and electrolyte check may also be done.
Risk Factors
The Mayo Clinic stresses that most acute renal failure cases stem from another medical condition or event, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease or liver disease.
Treatment
Treating the underlying cause of acute kidney failure is the most important step in treating the condition, according to the Mayo Clinic. Treatment may also include balancing the amount of fluid in the blood, especially if excess swelling is present in the limbs. Medications may be necessary to restore blood calcium levels and control potassium levels in the blood. A doctor may prescribe dialysis treatments to effectively remove any waste products from the blood as well.
