What is Renal Failure?
Renal failure refers to temporary or permanent damage to the kidneys that results in loss of normal kidney function. There are two different types of renal failure – acute and chronic. Acute renal failure has an abrupt onset and is potentially reversible. Chronic failure progresses slowly over at least three months and can lead to permanent renal failure. The causes, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes of acute and chronic are different.
Renal failure is a serious medical condition affecting the kidneys. When a person suffers from renal failure, their kidneys are not functioning properly or no longer work at all. Renal failure can be a progressive disease or a temporary one depending on the cause and available treatment options. The kidneys are glands that are located in the abdominal region just above the pelvis on either side of the body. When functioning normally, the kidneys separate and filter excess water and waste from the blood stream. The kidneys are responsible for producing urine, which is used to flush away the toxins. The kidneys also maintain a healthy balance of fluids and electrolytes, or salt compounds, in the body. In renal failure the kidneys undergo cellular death and are unable to filter wastes, produce urine and maintain fluid balances. This dysfunction causes a build up of toxins in the body which can affect the blood, brain and heart, as well as other complications. Renal failure is very serious
Renal failure or kidney failure occurs when the kidneys aren’t able to function properly. Kidneys are essentially the body’s filtration system. They are made up of hundreds of thousands of nephrons, which filter out wastes from the blood stream in the form of urine. In addition to this, the kidneys are also responsible for maintaining water and electrolyte balances, and producing some hormones such as erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood cell production. There are two types of renal failure: acute and chronic. Acute renal failure occurs very quickly as a result of lost function. It can be caused by toxins such as antifreeze, or many poisonous plants. It can also be caused by low blood pressure, a decrease in blood volume, a lack of blood supply to the kidneys, or a urinary blockage. Acute renal failure is potentially reversible, but can become chronic if left untreated. Chronic renal failure is most commonly seen in older cats, but does also occur in dogs. Because signs of renal
