Kidneys

Kidneys

Play a major role in maintaining homeostasis by eliminating waste from the blood.

Uremia

Occurs when the kidneys fail and the patient loses the ability to excrete waste from the body.

Kidney stones (renal calculi)

Crystals formed from chemicals in the urine that can cause blockage if they pass into the ureter.

Effects of kidney stones

Pressure builds up, causing kidney swelling; pain may start as vague flank discomfort, then intensify and radiate to the groin; nausea, vomiting, agitation, and restlessness may occur.

Blood in urine (hematuria)

May occur before or after a kidney stone passes due to ureter irritation.

Treatment for kidney stones

Many stones pass naturally; others may require surgical removal or breaking up.

Acute renal failure

A sudden decrease in kidney function caused by factors such as hemorrhage, dehydration, trauma, shock, sepsis, heart failure, medications, drug abuse, or kidney stones.

Reversibility of acute renal failure

Can be reversed with prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Chronic renal failure

Irreversible and progressive loss of kidney function developing over months or years; often caused by diabetes or hypertension.

Treatment for chronic renal failure

Dialysis or kidney transplant needed to remove waste from the bloodstream.

Severe chronic renal failure symptoms

Seizures and coma in later stages.

Additional signs of renal failure

Lethargy, nausea, headaches, cramps, and edema in the extremities and face due to fluid imbalance.

Complications of renal failure

Increased risk of heart failure and cardiac arrest.