Acute kidney injury (AKI), formerly known as acute renal failure, is a sudden and often serious condition that affects the kidneys. AKI occurs when the kidneys suddenly stop working, leading to a buildup of waste products in the body. In this article, we'll explore the symptoms of AKI, what causes it, and how it can be treated.
Symptoms of AKI
The symptoms of AKI can vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms of AKI include:
1. Decreased urine output: One of the most common symptoms of AKI is a decrease in urine output. This can be a sign that the kidneys are not functioning properly.
2. Swelling: AKI can cause swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles. This is because the kidneys are not able to remove excess fluid from the body.
3. Fatigue: People with AKI may feel tired or weak. This is because the kidneys are not able to remove waste products from the body, which can make the person feel sluggish.
4. Confusion: AKI can cause confusion or even coma in severe cases. This is because the buildup of waste products in the body can affect brain function.
5. Nausea and vomiting: AKI can cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration.
6. Shortness of breath: AKI can cause shortness of breath, which is a sign that the body is not getting enough oxygen.
7. Chest pain: In some cases, AKI can cause chest pain. This is because the kidneys are not able to remove excess fluid from the body, which can put pressure on the heart.
What causes AKI?
There are many different causes of AKI, including:
1. Dehydration: Dehydration can cause AKI because it reduces blood flow to the kidneys, which can lead to kidney damage.
2. Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause AKI.
3. Infections: Infections, such as sepsis or urinary tract infections, can cause AKI.
4. Kidney stones: Kidney stones can cause AKI if they block the flow of urine from the kidneys.
5. Trauma: Trauma to the kidneys, such as from a car accident or sports injury, can cause AKI.
6. Blood loss: Blood loss can cause AKI because it reduces blood flow to the kidneys.
7. Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or vasculitis, can cause AKI.
How is AKI treated?
The treatment for AKI depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, AKI can be treated by addressing the underlying cause. For example, if AKI is caused by dehydration, the person may be given fluids to help rehydrate the body. If AKI is caused by an infection, the person may be given antibiotics to treat the infection.
In more severe cases of AKI, the person may need to be hospitalized and receive treatment such as dialysis. Dialysis is a medical procedure that removes waste products from the blood when the kidneys are not able to do so. Dialysis can be done in a hospital or an outpatient clinic.
In some cases, AKI can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a long-term condition that affects the kidneys. People with CKD may need to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, to manage the condition. They may also need to take medication to control blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
In conclusion, AKI is a serious condition that can have many different causes. The symptoms of AKI can vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition. If you experience any of the symptoms of AKI, it's important to seek medical attention right away. With prompt treatment, AKI can often be successfully treated and managed.