Kidney

MAIN FUNCTIONS OF THE KIDNEYS................

• Formation and secretion of urien
• Production and secretion of erythropoietin, the hormone that controls formation of red blood cells.
• Production and secretion of renin, an important enzyme in the control of blood pressure. 

Acute kidney failure

Definition

Acute (sudden) kidney failure is the sudden loss of the ability of the kidneys to remove waste and concentrate urine without losing electrolytes.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

There are many possible causes of kidney damage. They include:

• Acute tubular necrosis (ATN)

• Autoimmune kidney disease, including:
  • Acute nephritic syndrome
  • Interstitial nephritis
• Decreased blood flow due to very low blood pressure, which can result from:
  • Burns
  • Dehydration
  • Hemorrhage
  • Injury
  • Septic shock
  • Serious illness
  • Surgery

Symptoms

• Bloody stools
• Breath odor
• Brusing easily

• Changes in mental statusor mood
• Decreased appetite
• Decreased sensation, especially in the hands or feet

• Fatigue

• Flank pain (between the ribs and hips)

• Hand tremor
• High blood pressure

• Metallic taste in mouth
• Nausea or vomiting, may last for days

• Nosebleeds
• Persistent hiccups
• Prolonged bleeding
• Seizures
• Slow, sluggish movements
• Swelling - generalized (fluid retention)
• Swelling of the ankle, feet, and leg swelling

• Urination changes:
  • Decrease in amount of urine
  • Excessive urination at night
  • Urination stops completely