Kidney failure refers to a sudden or gradual decline in kidney function. It can result from a loss of blood flow to the kidneys, kidney damage or a blockage that prevents urine from flowing out of the kidneys. Sudden-onset kidney failure may be caused by an accident or surgical complications that cause trauma to the kidney. Other causes of kidney failure include severe dehydration, urine obstruction, or the use of certain medications.

Although kidney failure can affect anyone, it is more common in older patients, and people who have underlying conditions that include the following:

• Kidney disease

• Liver disease

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

People who are obese are also more likely to have their kidneys fail.

Symptoms of Kidney Failure

Symptoms of kidney failure include the following:

• Internal bleeding

• High blood pressure

• Anemia

• Vomiting

• Nausea

• Confusion

• Infrequent or little urination

Sudden weight loss is also a symptom of kidney failure.

Diagnosis of Kidney Failure

Kidney failure is diagnosed by a complete review of symptoms and a physical examination. In most cases, blood tests are performed to measure creatinine levels, which are indicators of kidney function; abnormally high amounts of creatinine are present in the blood when kidneys fail. Other tests include urinalysis, X-ray or other imaging tests, and kidney biopsy.

Treatment of Kidney Failure

Treatment for kidney failure aims to restore kidney function, and prevent waste from building up in the body. Treating the underlying cause or illness can help the kidneys to regain function. Other methods of treatment include medication, or dialysis, which may be temporary or ongoing depending on the patient's condition. In severe cases, a kidney transplant may be necessary.

After treatment, patients need to make dietary changes, and may also be prescribed antibiotics to prevent or treat infection. Left untreated, kidney failure can be fatal.

Additional Resources

• MedlinePlus

• National Institutes of Health

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

• WebMD