Kidney failure:

Electrolyte balance

Kidney failure leads to an inability to balance electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium. These are needed for muscle contraction and nerve impulses.

What is kidney failure

Kidney failure is when the kidney loses nephrons, or the nephrons become less effective.

Water balance

Kidney failure leads to a reduced ability to balance fluid levels in the body which can lead to producing more urine, particularly at night. This could also lead to dehydration.

Summary of symptoms

Oedema (water retention)

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Fatigue

Nausea

Muscle cramps

Increased urination at night

Breathlessness

Blood and protein in urine

Causes of kidney failure

Diabetes High blood pressure over time High cholesterol Kidney infections Polycystic kidney disease Kidney stones Enlarged prostate Some medications Trauma to kidneys

Acid/base balance

The kidneys have a significant role in balancing hydrogen and bicarbonate ions. If this fails, the blood pH of between 7.35- 7.45 will be disrupted affecting enzyme structure and therefore metabolism.