What are Renal Failure?

Renal failure, also known as kidney failure, occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to effectively filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood. This can lead to a buildup of toxins and fluids in the body, resulting in various symptoms and complications. Renal failure can be acute, developing rapidly over a short period, or chronic, progressing gradually over months or years. Acute renal failure often occurs suddenly and may be reversible with prompt treatment, while chronic renal failure is a progressive condition that can lead to permanent kidney damage and necessitate long-term management, including dialysis or kidney transplantation.

Common Causes of a Renal Failure​

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Sudden loss of kidney function due to factors such as severe dehydration, infection, injury, medication toxicity, or reduced blood flow to the kidneys (hypoperfusion).

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Long-term damage to the kidneys, typically resulting from underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, or prolonged exposure to certain medications or toxins.

Obstructive Uropathy

Blockage or obstruction of the urinary tract, such as by kidney stones, tumors, or enlarged prostate gland, leading to impaired urine flow and kidney damage.

Hypertensive Nephropathy

Kidney damage caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure, which can progressively impair kidney function over time.

Diabetic Nephropathy

Kidney damage resulting from long-term uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, leading to diabetic kidney disease and eventual kidney failure.

Whom to Consult?​ and When to Seek Medical Advice?​

If you experience symptoms suggestive of renal failure or have concerns about your kidney health, it’s essential to seek prompt medical evaluation and appropriate management at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai.
Dr. S. Krishna Kumar

Dr. S. Krishna Kumar

MBBS, MD, DM

Senior Consultant

Dr. Tanuj Moses Lamech

Dr. Tanuj Moses Lamech

MBBS, MD, DM, DNB

Visiting Consultant

Dr. Mathew Gerry George

Dr. Mathew Gerry George

MBBS, MD, DNB

Visiting Consultant

Dr. Jayaprakash. V

Dr. Jayaprakash. V

MBBS, MD, DM, DNB

Visiting Consultant

Schedule an appointment with Nephro Sciences Today

Consult our healthcare experts immediately if you experience​​

Common FAQs About Renal Failure

Q: Can renal failure be reversed or cured?

A: The treatment and prognosis of renal failure depend on various factors, including the underlying cause, severity of kidney damage, and timely intervention. Acute renal failure may be reversible with prompt treatment, while chronic renal failure may require long-term management, including dialysis or kidney transplantation.

Q: What are the treatment options for renal failure?

A: Treatment for renal failure aims to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and prevent complications. It may include medications to control blood pressure, manage electrolyte imbalances, and treat underlying conditions, as well as lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, dialysis, or kidney transplantation for end-stage renal disease.

Q: How can renal failure be prevented?

A: While not all cases of renal failure can be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes and hypertension), avoiding nephrotoxic medications or substances, staying hydrated, and seeking prompt medical evaluation and treatment for kidney-related symptoms or concerns can help reduce the risk of developing renal failure.