Causes That May Lead to Acute Kidney Failure
Acute kidney failure, also known as acute renal failure, is a sudden disorder in which the kidneys lose their functionality over a very short period, estimated to be within a few hours to several days in certain cases. This can lead to a buildup of waste products in the bloodstream, which may adversely affect the functioning of other vital organs if treatment is not administered promptly.
Identifying the underlying cause of acute kidney failure is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment. There are various potential causes categorized into three main groups, which we will outline below:
Conditions That Impede Blood Flow to the Kidneys
This is one of the most prevalent causes of acute kidney failure. Reduced or halted blood supply to the kidneys can result in acute kidney failure since it prevents adequate amounts of oxygen-rich blood from reaching them. It is important to note that the kidneys require sufficient blood flow to help filter waste and eliminate excess fluids. Consequently, reduced blood flow can damage kidney tissues.
Health disorders and factors that may restrict blood flow to the kidneys include:
- Significant decrease in blood volume, with potential causes including:
- Acute bleeding.
- Severe vomiting.
- Severe dehydration.
- Profuse diarrhea.
- Insufficient blood pumping by the heart, which may occur due to:
- Sepsis.
- Liver failure.
- Heart muscle failure.
- Vascular disorders that affect blood transportation, such as:
- Vasculitis, a rare condition characterized by inflammation and blockage of blood vessels within the kidneys.
- Use of certain medications that impact kidney blood flow.
Conditions Causing Direct Damage to the Kidneys
Acute kidney failure may result from direct harm to the kidneys, with possible causes including:
- Glomerulonephritis, inflammation of the kidneys’ filtering units.
- Tumor lysis syndrome, a health condition resulting from rapid cell death in cancer, leading to toxin buildup in the kidneys.
- Formation of clots within blood vessels supplying or draining the kidneys.
- Autoimmune diseases that trigger kidney inflammation, such as lupus.
- Certain medications and chemical agents, like contrast dyes used in some diagnostic imaging tests.
- Cholesterol buildup in various parts of the kidneys.
- Early hemolysis of red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic uremic syndrome.
- Rhabdomyolysis, where muscle tissue breakdown leads to toxin accumulation in the kidneys.
- Rare diseases, such as scleroderma, which affect the skin and connective tissues.
- Rare blood disorders like thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
- Exposure to specific toxins, including cocaine and heavy metals.
- Certain infections, such as specific strains of the novel coronavirus.
Although the exact mechanism by which the coronavirus affects the kidneys is not fully understood, medical professionals believe that kidney damage can occur due to the virus targeting kidney cells and tissues, or from abnormally low levels of oxygen in the bloodstream as a result of pneumonia, a common complication in severe cases, subsequently impairing kidney function.
Conditions That Prevent Urination from the Kidneys
Various disorders can cause urine to accumulate within the kidneys, leading to damage and potential acute kidney failure. These disorders include:
- Neurological conditions affecting bladder control, preventing urination.
- Kidney stones.
- Prostate gland enlargement in men.
- Formation of blood clots in parts of the urinary tract.
- Cancers affecting the urinary passage, such as:
- Prostate cancer.
- Cervical cancer.
- Colon cancer.
- Bladder cancer.
Risk Factors for Acute Kidney Failure
A variety of factors can increase the likelihood of developing acute kidney failure. However, the presence of these factors does not guarantee that an individual will experience this condition. Some notable risk factors include:
- Advanced age, particularly being over 65 years old.
- Presence of chronic kidney diseases.
- Dehydration.
- Chronic illnesses such as liver diseases, diabetes, and heart failure.
- Higher susceptibility to urinary tract obstructions.
- Severe infections that could progress to sepsis.
- Use of certain medications, such as:
- Aminoglycosides, antibiotic medications typically administered in hospitals, which may induce acute kidney failure only in specific circumstances, such as dehydration.
- Blood pressure medications, albeit rarely, like diuretics and ACE inhibitors.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, when taken without proper medical guidance and for extended periods.
Preventing Acute Kidney Failure
Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of acute kidney failure. Some recommended health practices include:
- Exercise Caution with Medications:
It is advised to exercise care when using over-the-counter medications, including common pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Carefully reading the accompanying medication leaflet and adhering to safe dosage recommendations is essential.
- Monitor Kidney Function:
Routine monitoring of kidney function is crucial, especially for individuals with existing kidney disorders.
- Regulate Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure Levels:
Regularly checking blood sugar and blood pressure, especially for those experiencing abnormal levels, and adhering to prescribed treatment plans are imperative.
- Consult with Healthcare Professionals:
Following medical instructions diligently is pivotal, particularly for individuals with existing kidney diseases at elevated risk for acute kidney failure. Consulting a doctor for any uncertainties about medication usage is crucial.
- Adhere to Dialysis Schedules:
For individuals requiring regular dialysis due to kidney conditions, it is vital to stay committed to prescribed schedules and follow necessary procedures associated with home dialysis if applicable.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:
- Engage in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes five times a week.
- Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking.
- Adopt a balanced diet with reduced salt and fats intake.
Conclusion
Acute kidney failure is a serious health disorder that necessitates immediate medical intervention. It arises from issues such as interrupted blood flow to the kidneys, sudden spikes in waste or toxins that the kidneys need to expel, or urine retention within the kidneys. Certain risk factors can heighten the likelihood of developing this condition among individuals.