Acute Kidney Injury

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), also known as acute renal failure, is a sudden and rapid decline in kidney function. This condition develops over hours to days and can occur due to various underlying factors that affect kidney function and blood flow.

Causes of AKI: AKI can be caused by:

Severe Infection: Such as sepsis, which can impair blood flow to the kidneys.
Dehydration: Reduced fluid intake or excessive fluid loss.
Kidney Obstruction: Due to conditions like kidney stones or tumors.
Medications: Certain medications, toxins, or contrast dyes used in imaging tests.
Severe Illness or Injury: Such as trauma, major surgery, or heart failure.
Autoimmune Diseases: Such as vasculitis or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Symptoms of AKI: Symptoms of acute kidney injury may include:

Decreased Urine Output: Producing less urine than usual or not urinating at all.
Fluid Retention: Swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes.
Shortness of Breath: Due to fluid buildup in the lungs.
Fatigue and Confusion: Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance.
Nausea and Vomiting: Resulting from waste buildup in the blood.