Kidney Failure
By: Brianna Dellamuth
Definition-
Renal failure: inability of the kidneys to excrete wastes and to help maintain the electrolyte balance.
Symptoms-
In the beginning, it will seem like there are no symptoms. As the failure decreases, the symptoms are related to the inability to regulate water and electrolyte balances. If it is unrecognized or untreated, life-threatening circumstances may develop.
"Kidney Failure Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Failure? on MedicineNet." MedicineNet. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Apr. 2013.
Causes-
Sepsis: when the bodies immune system is overwhelmed from infection and causes inflammation which causes the kidneys to shut down. Medications: some medications can be harmful on the kidneys. Ibuprofen is one of the medications that can be harmful.
"Kidney Failure Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - What Causes Kidney Failure? on MedicineNet." MedicineNet. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Apr. 2013.
Diagnosis-
It is confirmed by blood tests that measure up the buildup in the blood. Urine tests can be done to test the amount of protein, detect the presence of abnormal cells, or measure the concentration of electrolytes. Abdominal ultrasound can determine the size of the kidneys and can identify if any obstruction occurs.
"Kidney Failure Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - How Is Kidney Failure Diagnosed? on MedicineNet." MedicineNet. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Apr. 2013.
Treatment-
It is very important that you detect kidney disease early, because if it gets too far out of hand, it can come to the point where it can't be undone. Controlling blood pressure is also very important for people with kidney disease. There are several types of medicine that help people keep their blood pressure in a healthy range.
"Kidney Disease: Early Detection and Treatment." U.S National Library of Medicine. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 30 Apr. 2013.
Diagnosis-
Once kidney failure is present, the goal is to prevent further deterioration of renal function. If ignored, the kidneys will progress to complete failure, but if underlying illnesses are addressed and treated aggressively, kidney function can be preserved, though not always improved.
"Kidney Failure Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - How Is Kidney Failure Diagnosed? on MedicineNet." MedicineNet. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Apr. 2013.