Acute kidney failure

Acute kidney failure, also known as acute renal failure or acute kidney injury, occurs when the kidneys suddenly stop functioning properly and can no longer filter waste products from the bloodstream. This immediate loss of function throws off your body’s regular electrolyte and fluid balance and causes dangerous chemicals to accumulate.

This condition develops quickly, often within a few days, and is more commonly seen in patients already admitted to hospitals, particularly those in intensive care units. Although serious and potentially life-threatening, acute kidney failure can be reversible, especially in individuals with no prior health concerns who receive timely and appropriate treatment.

Symptoms

Some of the warning signs and symptoms of acute kidney failure include:

• Reduced urine output, though urine levels can sometimes remain unchanged
• Swelling in the feet, legs, or ankles due to fluid retention
• Difficulty breathing
• General tiredness or lack of energy
• Feeling mentally foggy or confused
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle weakness or fatigue
• Irregular or abnormal heartbeat
• Chest discomfort or tightness
• In extreme cases, seizures or loss of consciousness

Occasionally, no symptoms are present, and the condition is only discovered through routine blood or urine tests.

Diagnosis

When acute kidney failure is suspected, your doctor may conduct several tests and evaluations to confirm the condition, such as:

• Measuring urine output – Tracking how much urine is produced over 24 hours can help identify the cause of the problem.
• Urinalysis – Examining a urine sample can provide clues about kidney function and help detect abnormalities.
• Blood tests – High levels of waste products like urea and creatinine in the blood are indicators of reduced kidney function.
• Imaging scans – To look at the kidneys’ structure, an ultrasound or CT scan may be performed.
• Kidney biopsy – In certain cases, a small tissue sample may be taken using a needle to analyze kidney health and detect the root cause.

Treatment

Managing acute kidney failure usually requires hospitalization. Most patients with this condition are already in the hospital due to other serious health issues. The duration of hospital stay depends on what triggered the kidney failure and how well the kidneys begin to recover. In less severe cases, recovery and ongoing care may continue at home under medical supervision.

For advanced care, visit Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar in Pune, a trusted nephrologist.

Treating the underlying cause of your kidney injury

The first step in treating acute kidney failure is identifying the condition or event that led to the kidney damage. Once diagnosed, treatment is focused on addressing that specific issue to stop further harm and support recovery.

Treating complications until your kidneys recover

During the recovery period, medical care is aimed at preventing additional complications and supporting kidney healing. This may include:

• Managing fluid levels – If you’re dehydrated, IV fluids may be given. In contrast, if there is fluid overload, medications called diuretics help remove excess fluid from the body.
• Regulating potassium levels – When potassium builds up in the blood, medications like calcium, glucose, or potassium binders are used to prevent life-threatening heart rhythm issues.
• Correcting calcium imbalances – If calcium levels drop too low, supplements or IV calcium may be administered.
• Dialysis – Temporary dialysis may be necessary when waste and toxins build up dangerously. This process filters the blood using a machine, supporting kidney function while the organs recover.

Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar, a trusted Pune nephrology doctor, offers expert care for acute kidney failure at a leading nephrology clinic in Pune.