The kidneys are organs located near the back that work to filter out waste and urine from the body. They also help manage blood pressure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 6 million Americans have a kidney-related disease or condition. At the Consultants of Kidney Disease in Dallas, Rowlett, North Dallas, Plano, Mesquite, Royse City, & Rockwall, TX, a doctor can provide you with an exam and treatment for acute kidney injury or AKI, also more traditionally called acute renal failure.
What Is an Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)?
When a medical condition is diagnosed as acute, it means that it happens suddenly, can progress quickly, but normally subsides after a short period of time. This is in contrast to a chronic disease, which is ongoing and can last for a long time. An acute kidney injury happens when the kidneys are unable to perform their normal function, putting the patient at risk of serious illness. The condition can progress within a matter of days.
Common Causes of Acute Kidney Injury
The most common reason for AKI is a related disease that causes the kidneys to have to work harder than normal to filter waste and manage blood pressure. That may include a virus like Covid-19 or influenza. In other cases, an acute kidney injury could be caused by taking a certain medication or consuming a poisonous substance. Patients who are older and immunocompromised may be at a greater risk.
Treatments for Acute Kidney Injury
The symptoms of AKI are almost immediately noticeable, including a significant rise in blood pressure, swelling in the limbs, inability to go to the bathroom, extreme fatigue, and lack of appetite. Your Dallas, Rowlett, North Dallas, Plano, Mesquite, Royse City, & Rockwall, TX, physician can provide the following treatments for acute kidney injury:
- A full panel of blood tests and urinalysis to make a diagnosis.
- Catheterization to aid in the elimination of urine waste.
- Fluid therapy.
- Antibiotic or antiviral medication.
- Dialysis if the condition and symptoms are advanced.
Schedule an Examination for Treatment
The first step to getting relief from acute kidney injury is to have a thorough examination with the Consultants of Kidney Disease in Dallas, Rowlett, North Dallas, Plano, Mesquite, Royse City, & Rockwall, TX. Call (469) 904-2020 today to schedule an appointment for prompt care and treatment.