Acute Kidney Failure 

Acute kidney failure, also known as acute renal failure or acute kidney injury, is a condition where your kidneys suddenly stop working effectively. The kidneys play a vital role in eliminating waste products and excess fluids from the blood. When they fail, toxins and fluids build up, leading to serious health problems. However, acute kidney failure is often reversible with the right care, and many patients recover fully. At Southwest Kidney Institute, we focus on providing personalized, compassionate care that can help you through every step of your recovery.  

If you’re experiencing acute kidney failure, you may notice symptoms that can range from mild to severe. While some of these symptoms can feel concerning, it’s important to remember that early detection can lead to successful treatment. Keep an eye out for:  

• Decreased urine output   
• Fluid build-up, which presents as swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet  
• Shortness of breath  
• Fatigue or weakness  

• Nausea and vomiting  
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating  
• Irregular heartbeat or chest pain  
• High blood pressure  

If you experience any of these symptoms, reaching out to a healthcare provider quickly can help prevent complications and lead to a smoother recovery.  

Acute kidney failure can occur due to various underlying conditions that affect how the kidneys function. Some common causes include:   

• Reduced blood flow to the kidneys: Severe dehydration, heart conditions, infections, or liver disease can limit blood flow to the kidneys.   
• Direct damage to the kidneys: Infections, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or exposure to toxins can harm the kidney tissue.  
• Blockage of urine flow: Kidney stones, enlarged prostate, or tumors may obstruct the urinary tract, preventing waste from being eliminated. 

Understanding the root cause is essential for treatment, and at Southwest Kidney Institute, our specialists work with you to identify and address the source of the problem. 

Some people are more at risk for developing acute kidney failure. Knowing your risk factors can help you take proactive steps to protect your kidney health. Factors that increase the risk include:   

• Age: Older adults are at higher risk.   
• Chronic kidney disease: Pre-existing kidney problems make it more likely for acute failure to occur.   
• Diabetes or high blood pressure: These conditions can affect kidney function over time.    

• Heart disease: Heart failure and other cardiovascular issues can reduce blood flow to the kidneys.
• Severe infections: Conditions like sepsis can cause widespread inflammation, affecting kidney function.  
• Certain medications: Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or certain antibiotics can increase the risk.   

By managing these risk factors with the support of your healthcare team, you can reduce your chances of acute kidney failure.   

Timely diagnosis of acute kidney failure is critical. Healthcare providers use a combination of methods to understand your kidney function and overall health. Here’s what to expect: 

• Medical history and physical exam: Your doctor will review any existing health conditions and perform a physical examination.
• Blood tests: These can measure waste products like creatinine and urea, indicating how well your kidneys are working.
• Urine tests: A urine analysis helps detect abnormalities and assess kidney function.
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs can reveal blockages or abnormalities in the kidneys.
• Kidney biopsy: In some cases, a small tissue sample may be taken to understand the cause of the kidney issue better.

Treatment Options and Home Care for Acute Kidney Failure

The treatment for acute kidney failure depends on the underlying cause and severity, but our goal is always to support kidney recovery. Most patients respond well to medical interventions, and some home remedies can complement your treatment plan. Here’s how we approach it:

• Hospital care: You may require treatments like intravenous fluids, medications to balance electrolytes, or temporary dialysis.
• Managing the cause: If an infection, medication, or blockage is causing the issue, addressing it is key to recovery.
• Lifestyle changes: A kidney-friendly diet with reduced sodium, potassium, and phosphorus is often recommended.
• Medications: You may need medication to manage blood pressure, reduce fluid build-up, or treat infections.
• Fluid management: Your doctor may advise monitoring and adjusting your fluid intake.

At home, sticking to your treatment plan, maintaining a healthy diet, and keeping up with regular check-ups can greatly support your recovery process.

Possible Complications of Acute Kidney Failure

While many people recover fully from acute kidney failure, it is important to be aware of potential complications. These include:

• Fluid overload: An excess build-up of fluid can gather in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Issues with potassium and sodium levels can affect heart function.
• Chronic kidney disease: In certain situations, acute kidney failure may result in lasting damage to the kidneys.
• Infections: If you are hospitalized, infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections can occur.

You can rest assured that the entire team at Southwest Kidney Institute is dedicated to preventing these complications and guiding you toward a smooth, successful recovery.

We Are Here to Support You

Facing acute kidney failure can feel overwhelming, but at Southwest Kidney Institute, you’re never alone. Our expert team of kidney specialists is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care, ensuring that you receive the best possible treatment to restore your kidney health.

If you or a loved one is showing signs or has been diagnosed with acute kidney failure, reach out to us today for support. We are here to help you take control of your health and guide you through every step of your recovery journey. Request an appointment with our top-rated providers today.