Kidney Failure: Definition, Types, and Treatment Methods

Kidney failure is a condition in which the kidneys are unable to perform their normal functions adequately. There are two main types: acute kidney failure and chronic kidney failure. Each type can result from different causes and may require different treatment approaches.

1. Types of Kidney Failure

a. Acute Kidney Failure (AKF)

– Definition: Acute kidney failure occurs when the kidneys suddenly and rapidly lose their function. It typically develops within hours or days.

– Causes:

  – Pre-renal: Insufficient blood flow to the kidneys (e.g., severe dehydration, heart failure).

  – Renal: Direct damage to kidney tissue (e.g., kidney infections, drug toxicity).

  – Post-renal: Obstructions in the urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones, prostate enlargement).

– Symptoms:

  – Rapid decrease or cessation of urine output

  – Swelling, edema

  – Fatigue, weakness

  – Nausea and vomiting

  – Abdominal pain

– Treatment:

  – Treatment of the Underlying Cause: Addressing the root cause of acute kidney failure (e.g., infection treatment, fluid replacement).

  – Dialysis: Short-term dialysis may be used to support kidney function.

  – Fluid and Electrolyte Management: Treatment to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

b. Chronic Kidney Failure (CKF)

– Definition: Chronic kidney failure is a long-term and progressive loss of kidney function, usually developing over years.

– Causes:

  – Diabetes Mellitus: High blood sugar levels affect the kidneys over time.

  – Hypertension: High blood pressure can damage kidney blood vessels, leading to loss of function.

  – Chronic Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidneys’ filtering units.

  – Polycystic Kidney Disease: A genetic disorder that causes cysts to form in the kidneys.

– Symptoms:

  – Changes in urine output (increase or decrease)

  – Swelling and edema

  – Fatigue, weakness

  – Anemia

  – Loss of appetite and nausea

  – Itching

– Treatment:

  – Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Dietary modifications and exercise to manage blood sugar and hypertension.

  – Medication: Medications to support kidney function (e.g., antihypertensive drugs, anemia treatment).

  – Dialysis: Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis may be used to support kidney function.

  – Kidney Transplant: In advanced cases, a kidney transplant from a compatible donor may be performed.

2. Types of Dialysis

– Hemodialysis: Blood is cleaned through an external machine and returned to the body. This process is usually performed several times a week.

– Peritoneal Dialysis: Waste products and excess fluids are removed from the body using the peritoneal membrane (the lining of the abdomen). This process can often be done at home.

3. Kidney Transplant

– Definition: The procedure of transplanting a healthy kidney from a donor to a person with kidney failure. A successful transplant can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

– Donor Types: Living donor (a close relative or compatible person) or cadaver donor (kidney from a deceased person).

4. Conclusion

Kidney failure is a serious condition resulting from the loss of kidney function. Turkey is in a significant position in kidney failure treatment with advanced medical methods, modern techniques, and experienced specialists. Comprehensive treatment approaches, including dialysis and kidney transplantation, can improve patients’ quality of life.