WHAT IS ACUTE KIDNEY FAILURE 

Acute kidney failure occurs when the kidneys suddenly lose their ability to filter waste and water from the blood. It may occur with a major illness, trauma, or infection and can permanently damage the kidney it if it does not receive immediate intensive treatment. Usually this means treating the cause of the failure, but it can include dialysis to remove toxins and excess fluid from the body. You may have no symptoms of kidney failure or be quite ill. It can be fatal, but many people make a full recovery.

SOME COMMON SYMPTOMS OF ACUTE KIDNEY FAILURE

Decreased appetite, Swelling, Decreased urination, Increased thirst and dry mouth, Nausea or vomiting, Drowsiness, Pain or discomfort, Confusion, Light-headedness, Rapid heart rate (Pulse)

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT

DIAGNOSIS: Your doctor will take a medical history and do a physical exam, including blood and urine tests, and may do an ultrasound, CT scan, or tissue sample (biopsy) from the kidney.

TREATMENT: Treatment for acute kidney failure depends on the cause and may include: 

1. Treating the underlying cause 

2. Stopping any medication related to the cause 

3. Intravenous fluids for dehydration or to maintain adequate blood volume 

4. Restricting diet 

5. Medication for high blood levels of potassium or phosphate 

6. A catheter or stent to treat obstruction 

7. Dialysis

SELF CARE: 

1. If your doctor recommends it, avoid high-potassium or high-salt foods during your recovery from acute kidney failure.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION  

If you urinate less than 1 to 2 cups of urine a day and have been experiencing loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, or foot or ankle swelling, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.