Acute kidney injury (AKI), also known as acute renal failure (ARF), is a “sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days. AKI causes a build-up of waste products in the blood and makes it hard for the kidneys to keep the right balance of fluid in the body.” Sometimes kidneys are not able to fully recover, and people develop a condition called chronic kidney disease.
Depending on the cause of the AKI, immediate attention is needed because it can progress into chronic kidney disease (CKD) or even end stage renal disease, also known as kidney failure. AKI can have many different causes:
Treatment for AKI usually involves a hospital stay. Dialysis may be needed temporarily to recover kidney function. After an initial diagnosis of AKI, there is a higher risk of developing other conditions like kidney disease, stroke and heart disease.
If AKI leads to chronic kidney disease, the kidneys will slowly decrease in function.
Symptoms may not be noticeable until late stage kidney disease:
These are the symptoms of the most advanced stages Of chronic kidney disease:
Anyone can develop chronic kidney disease, at any age. If CKD has been caused by acute kidney injury (AKI), there are continuing research options to identify and manage this disease. A recent study found that quickly receiving intravenous (IV) fluids improved kidney function within 2 days. Critically ill patients with AKI need proper at-home follow-up care to keep creatinine levels within normal range.
Nephrotoxicity, a rapid deterioration in the kidney function due to toxic effects of medications and chemicals, can be a common concern for patients with either AKI or CKD.
Here are some medications to be aware of:
For AKI and CKD, early detection is important and begins with knowing your risk factors and any apparent symptoms.
Acute kidney injury (AKI), also known as acute renal failure (ARF), is a “sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days. AKI causes a build-up of waste products in the blood and makes it hard for the kidneys to keep the right balance of fluid in the body.” Sometimes kidneys are not able to fully recover, and people develop a condition called chronic kidney disease.
Depending on the cause of the AKI, immediate attention is needed because it can progress into chronic kidney disease (CKD) or even end stage renal disease, also known as kidney failure. AKI can have many different causes:
Treatment for AKI usually involves a hospital stay. Dialysis may be needed temporarily to recover kidney function. After an initial diagnosis of AKI, there is a higher risk of developing other conditions like kidney disease, stroke and heart disease.
If AKI leads to chronic kidney disease, the kidneys will slowly decrease in function.
Symptoms may not be noticeable until late stage kidney disease:
These are the symptoms of the most advanced stages Of chronic kidney disease:
Anyone can develop chronic kidney disease, at any age. If CKD has been caused by acute kidney injury (AKI), there are continuing research options to identify and manage this disease. A recent study found that quickly receiving intravenous (IV) fluids improved kidney function within 2 days. Critically ill patients with AKI need proper at-home follow-up care to keep creatinine levels within normal range.
Nephrotoxicity, a rapid deterioration in the kidney function due to toxic effects of medications and chemicals, can be a common concern for patients with either AKI or CKD.
Here are some medications to be aware of:
For AKI and CKD, early detection is important and begins with knowing your risk factors and any apparent symptoms.
about the author
Lisa Foster
Lisa Foster is a mom of 3 daughters, a puzzle lover, writer and HealthTree advocate. She believes in the mission of the foundation and the team that builds it forward. She calls Houston, Texas home.
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