Renal Disease

by: AimyD
Total views: 15 | Word Count: 333

Renal disease or renal failure is a serious medical condition in which the kidneys decrease functionality or lose functionality completely. The kidneys are responsible for separating and filtering excess water and waste from the blood stream. The kidneys are also responsible for producing urine, which then flushes away any toxins in the body. The kidneys are used to maintain a healthy balance of fluids and salt compounds in the body.

Renal failure occurs when the kidneys suffer from cellular death, making it impossible for the kidney to filter toxins, maintain the fluid balance in the body, and produce urine. Increased amounts of toxins in the body may cause complications on the brain, blood, and heart. If untreated, renal disease can be very deadly.

Renal failure has two different types, chronic and acute.

Acute renal failure occurs rapidly and may be initiated by an underlying cause such as infection, previous kidney injury, dehydration, and use of over the counter pain medications. Acute renal failure is usually reversible and has no lasting damage.

Chronic renal failure is more dangerous because the symptoms do not appear until the kidney is severely damaged. Chronic renal failure can be caused by other medical conditions such as high blood pressure and even diabetes. This can become worse over time, making it worse if the problem has gone untreated for an extreme period of time.

Symptoms of renal failure will consist of an accumulation of fluid characterized by swelling and a sudden decrease in urination. Other symptoms may include ill feelings, headaches, and exhaustion. Many times some one with renal failure does not experience any symptoms.

There are treatment options for renal failure, such as dialysis and transplant. If the case is sever enough to need a transplant the person must stay on dialysis until a donor organ can be found. There are steps and tests that must be taken before a transplant can be made possible. Talk to a doctor about the possible treatment options for you or your loved one.