Healthy kidneys filter waste and excess fluids out of the body through urine. Renal failure is the loss of kidney function due to damage, which results in dangerous levels of fluid and waste retention in the body, according to the Mayo Clinic. The National Kidney Foundation notes that chronic kidney disease impacts over 26 million Americans, with a significant risk to millions more based on several factors or medical complications from pre-existing conditions.
Diabetic Kidney Disease
The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse says that pre-existing diabetes is one of the most common risk factors for chronic renal failure. Diabetes prevents the body from utilizing glucose effectively, causing toxic levels of glucose to buildup in the blood. Chronic high blood sugar overworks the kidneys and leads to improper function, according to the American Diabetes Association. Mismanaged diabetes increases the risk of kidney failure, resulting in the need for life-long dialysis or kidney transplantation.
Hypertension
The National Kidney Foundation says that hypertension, or high blood pressure, can cause chronic renal failure. Individuals with hypertension are at increased risk for renal dysfunction, because high blood pressure damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys. This damage prevents the filtration and excretion of waste from the body. The Mayo Clinic notes that managing high blood pressure through physician monitoring, use of medication and lifestyle changes can decrease risk of developing renal failure. However, medication for existing kidney damage also can cause high blood pressure.
Cholesterol, Triglycerides and Heart Disease
Heart disease is the primary cause of death for individuals with chronic kidney disease, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Factors that influence risk for renal failure and progression of heart disease include high cholesterol and triglycerides, which are fatty substances in the blood. A diet high in saturated fat, sedentary lifestyle, and being overweight, increase the risk of fat accumulation in the blood, notes MedlinePlus. The excess cholesterol and triglycerides can block blood flow to the heart. This makes the heart work harder and weaken the heart muscle. Blood is no longer forced through the kidneys efficiently, which leads to excess fluid and waste, causing toxins to build up and progressively reduce kidney function.
Genetics and High Risk Populations
Hereditary factors can increase risk of developing renal disease. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse says this can include developing a genetic disorder, polycystic kidney disease, which reduces kidney function and causes renal failure because of cysts that grow in the kidneys. Polycystic kidney disease is generally detectable in children. Signs are high blood pressure, low blood cell count and abnormal back pain. The National Kidney Foundation notes that certain populations, such as African Americans, Hispanics and seniors, are at an increased risk of developing renal disease, depending on lifestyle habits, existing medical conditions and hereditary factors.
