June 5, 2025

Our kidneys are known to filter blood and remove extra waste from the body. If, for some reason, they are unable to perform these functions efficiently, it can result in kidney failure. It can be caused by several factors, such as kidney injuries, diabetes, dehydration and high blood pressure. Knowing these causes, symptoms, and available treatment options is essential to help prevent severe kidney damage and improve kidney health. In the article below, we will throw light on everything you need to know about kidney failure to help you catch any early signs and seek timely medical help. 

What Is Kidney Failure?

The kidneys filter excess water and waste from the body, thereby helping to keep it clean and chemically stable. They also help regulate bodily fluid levels, maintain essential vitamins and minerals, and promote overall health and well-being. Kidney failure is a condition that occurs when the kidneys lose their filtering ability and are unable to function properly, resulting in the buildup of dangerous fluids in the body. Kidney failure can be temporary as well as long-term. Either way, immediate treatment is mandatory to prevent any further damage to the kidneys and overall health. 

There are mainly two types of kidney failure Acute Kidney Failure and Chronic Kidney Failure. Acute kidney failure, also known as acute renal failure, occurs suddenly, often within hours or days. It results from factors such as an injury, severe dehydration, illness, kidney stones or any other issue that affects the flow of blood to the kidneys. This type of failure is often reversible with immediate treatment and care. In contrast to this, Chronic Kidney Failure, also known as chronic renal disease, develops gradually over time and can cause severe damage to the kidneys as well as overall health. It is a stage-based condition, with each stage being worse than the previous. It is often caused by health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, glomerulonephritis, etc.  

Symptoms of Kidney Failure

Kidney failure symptoms vary based on factors such as the type of failure, underlying medical conditions and other complications. Here are some of the common symptoms noticed in most kidney failure patients:

1. Fatigue and Weakness

As mentioned earlier, the primary function of the kidneys is to filter the waste and excess water from the water. When they fail to do so, it leads to an excess buildup of waste products in the body causing feelings of extreme fatigue and weakness.

2. Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet

Lack of kidney function causes excess fluid retention in the body, which in turn causes swelling in areas like the legs, ankles and feet. This condition is also commonly known as edema.

3. Nausea and Vomiting

When waste products and toxins build up in the bloodstream, they tend to affect the body’s digestive system. This, in turn, causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and even loss of appetite. However, these symptoms are often visible in the last stages of chronic renal failure.

4. Decreased Urine Output or Dark Urine

You might notice a significant decrease in the urine output. This again occurs due to a lack of kidney function. You might also notice having darker urine than normal. Some also experience nocturia (frequent urination at night). 

5. High Blood Pressure

Kidneys assist in regulating blood pressure levels and managing bodily fluids. Therefore, when the kidneys do not function properly it leads to a high blood pressure which again causes more damage to the kidneys. 

6. Persistent Itching and Difficulting Concentrating

Excessive waste buildup in the body causes itchy skin. These toxins also impair brain function, making it difficult to concentrate or focus on anything, thereby affecting memory and cognition.

Kidney Failure Treatment Options

Due to the various types of kidney failures, there are quite a few treatment options available. Some of the most commonly used treatment forms include:

Medications: Doctors often prescribe certain medication based on the causes, symptoms, CKD (chronic kidney disease) stage and other complications. These medications help manage the symptoms and reverse the damage that is done to the kidneys. However, it is important to note that in some cases such as the last stage renal failure, medications might have little to no impact on the kidneys. 

Controlling High Blood Pressure: Having high blood pressure is common in chronic kidney disease. Doctors often prescribe medication and several lifestyle and dietary changes to help get it under control. 

Dialysis: In severe cases, when the kidneys are barely functioning or have stopped functioning entirely, dialysis becomes mandatory. It is often performed 3 to 5 times a week, depending on the type of dialysis and the severity of the kidney failure. If you ever need an ambulance for your scheduled dialysis or know of someone who might need it, you can always rely on Zenplus to access smooth and quick medical transport anytime, anywhere. 

How to Reduce the Risks of Kidney Failure?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent kidney failure entirely, the risks can be significantly reduced by practising healthy lifestyle habits and managing existing health conditions. Some of the best preventive measures are as follows:

• Ensure adequate consumption of water to keep your kidneys well-hydrated
• Consume a well-balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, minerals, proteins and nutrients.
• Limit consumption of excessive salt as it can strain the kidneys and increase blood pressure.
• Perform simple exercises regularly to promote overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

Kidney failure is a serious medical condition and can be life-threatening if not addressed in time. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing the condition and preventing it from worsening. Your kidneys play a crucial role in the body’s smooth functioning, and therefore, it is your responsibility to ensure that they are taken care of through proper hydration, healthy meals and regular check-ups. Taking proactive steps towards kidney health can go a long way in ensuring overall health and well-being. 

FAQs

1. How is kidney failure diagnosed?

Kidney failure is diagnosed through a series of blood and urine tests. Oftentimes, imaging tests are performed as well. 

2. Can I live a normal life with kidney failure?

Yes, it is possible to live a normal life with kidney failure; however, it would require several lifestyle adjustments and continuous medical care. 

3. How can kidney failure be prevented?

While there isn’t a guaranteed way to prevent it, practising healthy lifestyle habits and managing health conditions through medical care and treatment can significantly reduce the risks of kidney failure.