What Causes Acute Kidney Disease?
Acute Kidney Disease (AKD) may be caused due to several factors that affect kidney function drastically and rapidly. A few major causes are: blood flow, which may often be due to extreme dehydration, heart failure, or significant blood loss, as less oxygen and nutrients to the kidneys can lead to poor filtering of waste in the kidneys, thus leading to AKD.
Another cause is the direct tissue damage of the kidneys. The renal cells are toxic to certain types of medications, which include NSAIDs and specific antibiotics, while infections, as well as exposure to some toxins such as heavy metals, cause damage to the tissues of the kidneys.
Urinary obstructions, including kidney stones, tumors, or an enlarged prostate, prevent urine from draining out into the urinary tract, hence causing pressure on the kidneys with subsequent damage. Early diagnosis of such obstructions improves treatment.
Finally, AKD could precipitate from sepsis resulting from massive inflammation that compromises blood flow towards the kidneys. In that situation, treatment of infection immediately will prevent AKD.
Acute Kidney Disease: Treatment
Treatment of Acute Kidney Disease
Fluid management is very critical in the treatment of AKD. IV fluids can be beneficial if dehydration causes blood flow to the kidneys to reduce. If fluid retention has been identified, fluid restriction may be initiated or diuretics may be used to eliminate excess fluid so as to preserve kidney function and avoid complications.
Medications are essential in the management of AKD. Doctors may use medications to control blood pressure, manage infections, or reduce pain. They monitor and adjust medications carefully to avoid worsening kidney damage. Diuretics help reduce fluid retention and stabilize kidney function.
In some cases, dialysis is useful when kidneys cannot filter out wastes and excess fluids. These two types of dialysis can be carried out in either an artificial outside the body filter. Dialysis usually takes place as a short-term treatment until the functioning of the kidneys improves.
The main management of AKD is nutritional support. In the presence of AKD, a dietitian could recommend a low-protein diet that would minimize toxin buildup and assist in maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. Patients also have to adhere to certain sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and fluid intake regulations that help reduce the workload on the kidneys.
Preventing Acute Kidney Disease
Prevention of AKD is achieved when patients are hydrated to cater to their kidneys, especially in hot weather or excessive physical exercise.
Another critical aspect is medication monitoring, which includes consulting a healthcare provider before starting new medications, such as NSAIDs.
Management of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, are crucial for the health of the kidneys. Regular management of these conditions reduces the likelihood of kidney damage over time.
Regular check-ups can detect kidney problems early, which allows timely intervention. Routine screenings are important for individuals with risk factors for kidney disease.