Acute kidney injury

Acute kidney failure, also known as acute kidney injury (AKI), is a sudden decline in kidney function that occurs within a week. It happens when the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste products from the blood, or to balance fluids and electrolytes. 

Causes include severe illness, major surgery, or certain medications. 
AKI causes kidney damage or failure within a short period of time. AKI may damage other organs as well, such as the heart, lungs, and brain. In severe cases, temporary dialysis may be required. AKI can be reversible if caught early but may lead to chronic kidney disease if not promptly addressed.

Symptoms:

• Decreased urine output
• Fluid retention causing swelling in legs, ankles, or feet
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Chest pain or pressure
• Seizures in severe cases

Diagnostic Approaches:

• Blood tests to measure creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
• Urine output monitoring
• Urinalysis to check for blood or abnormal cells
• Imaging studies like ultrasound to check for obstruction
• Kidney biopsy in some cases

Treatment Options:

• Treating the underlying cause (e.g., sepsis, dehydration)
• Stopping medications that may be causing kidney damage
• Intravenous fluids to maintain proper hydration
• Medications to control blood potassium levels
• Dialysis in severe cases

Follow-up Care:

• Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood tests
• Follow-up with a nephrologist, especially if kidney function doesn't fully recover
• Monitoring for development of chronic kidney disease
• Avoiding nephrotoxic medications
• Education on maintaining kidney health

Treatment for AKI depends on the cause and aims to restore normal kidney function. Treatment would include  restricting  fluids and diet, medications, or  dialysis.