Advanced kidney treatments for a better future 

End-stage renal disease, also known as renal failure or kidney failure, is a severe medical condition in which the kidneys cannot adequately filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood. This results in a buildup of toxins and fluids in the body, leading to various health complications.

Symptoms of kidney failure may include:

1. Fatigue and weakness

2. Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet

3. Shortness of breath

4. Nausea and vomiting

5. Loss of appetite

6. Confusion and difficulty concentrating

7. Abnormal heart rhythms

8. Decreased urine output or dark-colored urine

There are several potential causes of kidney failure, including:

1. Chronic kidney disease: This is the most common cause of kidney failure. It develops gradually over time due to diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), glomerulonephritis, and other kidney-related diseases.

2. Acute kidney injury: This occurs suddenly and is often reversible if the underlying cause is treated promptly. AKI can be triggered by severe dehydration, infection, blood loss, certain medications, or toxins.

3. Diabetes: High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney damage and, eventually, kidney failure.

4. High blood pressure (hypertension): Uncontrolled hypertension can damage the blood vessels and nephrons (the filtering units) in the kidneys, causing CKD and, in severe cases, kidney failure.

5.  Kidney stones: Repeated formation of kidney stones or the presence of large rocks can obstruct the urinary tract and impair kidney function.

6. Urinary tract obstruction: Blockages in the urinary tract, such as those caused by an enlarged prostate or tumors, can disrupt urine flow and lead to kidney damage.

7. Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and vasculitis can cause kidney inflammation and damage.

Kidney specialist uses a variety of kidney function tests to evaluate the functioning of kidneys and to make renal failure diagnosis. Common tests include:

1. Blood test shows how well the kidneys remove waste from the blood. A specialist uses a thin needle to withdraw a small amount of blood from a vein in the arm. Technicians will then analyze the blood sample at a lab.

2. Urine test: This test measures specific substances in the urine, such as protein or blood. For this test, urine is taken in a container at the hospital. Technicians will then analyze the urine sample at a lab.

3. Imaging tests: These tests allow a provider to look at the kidneys and the surrounding areas to identify abnormalities or blockages. Standard imaging tests include kidney ultrasound, CT urogram, and MRI.