Medical Library

Acute Renal Failure

Renal failure occurs when the kidneys are unable to do their job: to filter wastes from the blood, help regulate blood pressure, and regulate salt and water balances in the body. As blood flows through the kidneys, it is filtered, and wastes are removed and sent to the bladder as urine. If kidney function becomes impaired, acute (rapid) or chronic (gradually developing) renal failure may occur. With acute renal failure, kidney function can return to normal if the underlying cause of the failure is discovered and successfully treated.

Symptoms of Acute Renal Failure
The symptoms of the underlying cause of acute renal failure may be more prominent, but the following symptoms of acute renal failure may occur:

* Little or no urine output (in some cases, urine output may continue)
* Foot, ankle and leg swelling
* Drowsiness
* Shortness of breath

Acute renal failure is usually diagnosed by blood tests that indicate impaired kidney function. Treating the cause of acute renal failure can help restore kidney function rapidly. Abnormalities in blood pressure, amount of body fluid, and electrolytes (minerals in the blood) also need to be evaluated and treated. In some cases, dialysis (filtering of the blood outside the body using a machine) may be necessary to replace kidney function.

For More Information
National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases
(800) 891-5390

National Kidney Foundation
(800) 622-9010

Kidney & Urology Foundation of America
(800) 633-6628

American Association of Kidney Patients
(800) 749-2257

American Kidney Fund
(800) 638-8299

Sources: Kidney & Urology Foundation of America, National Kidney Foundation, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases

Sharon Parmet, M.S., Writer
Cassio Lynm, M.A., Illustrator
Richard M. Glass, M.D., Editor

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