Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury also called acute renal failure is a condition in which the kidneys are unable to perform their function all of a sudden. It is generally acute and develops rapidly. It may lead to critical conditions and sometimes be fatal. 

Acute kidney injury leads to the accumulation of waste products in the blood and causes an imbalance in the electrolyte level leading to renal failure. It is most commonly seen in older persons and in patients who are admitted to the Intensive Care Unit in hospitals. Symptoms of acute kidney injury are 

• Tiredness 
• Shortness of breath 
• Low urine output 
• Swelling in legs and ankles 
• Nausea 
• Seizures 

Acute kidney injuries are usually caused by decreased blood flow to the Kidneys, underlying kidney conditions, blockage of the urinary tract, and kidney stones. Measurement of urine output, urine test, blood test, ultrasound imaging, and kidney biopsy can help diagnose acute kidney injury. 

Treatment for acute kidney injury involves dialysis and certain medications. Recurrence of acute kidney injury may lead to renal failure