Kidney failure is a condition that can affect the body's metabolism due to the numerous functions the kidneys play. Let's delve deeper into the causes and potential symptoms.
The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body's metabolism. They regulate blood pressure, blood pH levels, filter and excrete toxic substances from the body, and produce various hormones needed to maintain metabolic balance.
In general, based on the course of the disease, kidney failure can be divided into two major groups: acute kidney failure and chronic kidney failure. Acute kidney failure tends to progress more quickly, while chronic kidney failure usually takes longer.
Acute kidney failure
Acute kidney failure, or acute kidney injury (AKI), can be caused by many factors. However, the causes of AKI can be divided into three categories: prerenal (the process before reaching the kidneys), renal (the process within the kidneys), and postrenal (the process after the kidneys). Prerenal causes of AKI are usually related to impaired blood flow to the kidneys. Dehydration tends to decrease blood flow, while high blood pressure tends to increase blood flow. Both conditions can lead to acute kidney failure if not properly controlled.
Furthermore, decreased blood flow to the kidneys can be caused by severe bleeding, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure and hypovolemic shock. Besides hypovolemic shock, septic shock due to infection and cardiogenic shock can also cause acute kidney failure. Furthermore, heart failure can also affect blood flow to the kidneys and trigger AKI.
Sedangkan untuk penyebab AKI pada renal bisa disebabkan oleh kerusakan pada jaringan ginjal seperti pada kasus glomerulonefritis, konsumsi obat seperti NSAID, penyakit autoimun dan nekrosis tubulus akut. Gangguan pada post renal seperti obstruksi pada saluran kemih juga dapat menyebabkan gagal ginjal akut. Hal ini dapat ditemukan pada kasus batu saluran kemih, tumor saluran kemih, pembesaran prostat hingga striktur uretra.
Chronic kidney failure
Chronic kidney failure, or chronic kidney disease (CKD), is usually caused by various chronic diseases that can affect kidney function. The most common causes are diabetes mellitus and hypertension. If blood sugar and blood pressure levels are not properly controlled, these conditions can lead to CKD.
Chronic kidney failure is classified into stages 1 through 5, indicating severity and determining further management. In stage 5, or the final stage, if conventional treatment and hemodialysis have not shown significant results, a kidney transplant may be recommended by the treating physician.
What are the symptoms of kidney failure?
In cases of acute kidney failure, symptoms appear quickly as the disease progresses. Common symptoms include decreased urine output, swelling of the feet, hands, and face, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and shortness of breath. However, in cases of chronic kidney failure, symptoms may not be present in the early stages because they don't interfere with daily activities. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may appear.
Symptoms of chronic kidney failure are not much different from those of acute kidney failure, such as fatigue, swelling, changes in urine output, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath. However, in cases of CKD, dry and itchy skin, muscle cramps, and decreased consciousness are often also present. Regular checkups with a doctor are crucial, especially if you have risk factors such as underlying medical conditions or a family history of kidney failure. Regular screenings can help detect the condition early and provide appropriate treatment before complications arise.
Written by Dr. Valda Garcia Reviewed by Dr. Ernest Eugene
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