Overview

Acute Kidney Injury, also known as acute renal failure, is a sudden decrease in kidney function that occurs over hours or days, leading to an accumulation of waste products in the blood causing an imbalance of electrolytes. This rapid decline in kidney function can be life-threatening if left untreated, particularly for individuals with existing health conditions. As a serious and potentially reversible condition, early detection and intervention are critical for better outcomes.

Kidney Function - an overview

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage. They perform several essential functions:

• Filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood to form urine
• Balancing electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium
• Regulating blood pressure by releasing of hormones
• Supporting bone health by activating vitamin D
• Producing erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow

When kidney function declines suddenly, these processes can become disrupted, leading to symptoms and complications that require immediate medical attention.

Causes of Acute Kidney Injury

1. Pre-renal causes

   In this condition, the blood flowing to the kidneys gets reduced. Causes are like severe dehydration due to vomiting, diarrhea, or bleeding. That can be accompanied by hypotension or low blood pressure in some cases resulting from shock, heart failure, or sepsis. Additionally, blood clotting in the renal arteries also reduces blood supply to the kidneys.

2. Intrinsic/intrarenal causes

   This primarily involves damage to kidney tissue, leading to acute tubular necrosis (ATN), which is caused by ischemia (lack of oxygen) or exposure to toxins. Another intrarenal issue is acute interstitial nephritis, often triggered by an allergic reactions to medications. Glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the kidney's glomeruli, is usually the result of autoimmune disorders. management of this type of disease requires special investigation like kidney and treatment may need immunosuppressive treatment.

3. Post-renal causes These are the blockages that obstruct urine flow and are characterized further by an enlarged prostate in men. In cases of patients suffering from kidney stones or tumors, ureteral stricture gets narrowed down in turn blocking the urinary tract.

Symptoms of Acute Kidney Injury

The signs and symptoms of AKI

• Reduced urine output - One of the most common indicators

• Swelling (edema) - Due to fluid retention in the legs, ankles, or face

• Fatigue and weakness: As toxins accumulate in the bloodstream

• Shortness of breath: Due to fluid accumulation in the lungs

• Nausea and vomiting:Resulting from electrolyte imbalances

• Irregular heartbeat:Due to high potassium levels or hyperkalemia

In case you or your loved ones have any of these symptoms, you must visit the best hospital for acute kidney injury, India namely Accord super speciality hospital. Depending on the severity of the injury and underlying causes, our acute kidney injury specialist in Faridabad might help you out with expert guidance if you are in or around the smart City.

Acute Kidney Injury is a serious but potentially reversible condition with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Hospitals play a vital role in managing AKI through early identification, specialized care, and patient education. For anyone experiencing symptoms of AKI or at high risk, prompt medical attention can be life-saving.