End stage renal failure, also known as end stage renal disease, is a serious condition in which the kidneys are no longer able to function properly. This condition is often the result of chronic kidney disease, which is a long-term condition that causes damage to the kidneys over time. In this article, we'll explore the symptoms of end stage renal failure before death, what causes it, and how it can be treated.
End Stage Renal Failure Symptoms Before Death
The symptoms of end stage renal failure before death can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms of end stage renal failure before death include:
1. Decreased urine output: One of the most common symptoms of end stage renal failure before death is a decrease in urine output. This can be a sign that the kidneys are not functioning properly.
2. Swelling: End stage renal failure 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 end stage renal failure 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: End stage renal failure 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: End stage renal failure can cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration.
6. Shortness of breath: End stage renal failure can cause shortness of breath, which is a sign that the body is not getting enough oxygen.
7. Chest pain: In some cases, end stage renal failure 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.
8. Itching: End stage renal failure can cause itching, which is a sign that waste products are building up in the body.
9. Muscle cramps: End stage renal failure can cause muscle cramps, which can be painful and debilitating.
What Causes End Stage Renal Failure?
End stage renal failure is often the result of chronic kidney disease, which is a long-term condition that causes damage to the kidneys over time. There are many different causes of chronic kidney disease, including:
1. Diabetes: Diabetes is one of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney damage.
2. High blood pressure: High blood pressure can also damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney damage.
3. Glomerulonephritis: Glomerulonephritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the kidneys. This inflammation can damage the kidneys and lead to end stage renal failure.
4. Polycystic kidney disease: Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic condition that causes cysts to form in the kidneys. Over time, these cysts can damage the kidneys and lead to end stage renal failure.
5. Kidney stones: Kidney stones can cause kidney damage if they block the flow of urine from the kidneys.
6. Urinary tract infections: Urinary tract infections can cause kidney damage if they spread to the kidneys.
How is End Stage Renal Failure Treated?
The treatment for end stage renal failure depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, end stage renal failure can be treated by addressing the underlying cause. For example, if end stage renal failure is caused by high blood pressure, the person may be given medication to lower their blood pressure.
In more severe cases of end stage renal failure, the person may need to undergo 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, end stage renal failure can lead to the need for a kidney transplant. A kidney transplant involves replacing the damaged kidney with a healthy kidney from a donor. In order to be eligible for a kidney transplant, the person must be in good health and have a compatible donor.
In conclusion, end stage renal failure is a serious condition that can have many different causes. The symptoms of end stage renal failure before death can vary depending on the severity of the condition. If you experience any of the symptoms of end stage renal failure before death, it's important to seek medical attention right away. With prompt treatment, end stage renal failure can often be successfully treated and managed.