Those suffering from acute kidney injury can experience an increased risk of progression of chronic kidney disease. When left untreated, acute kidney injuries may lead to chronic health issues. Because of this, those diagnosed with an acute kidney injury should seek urgent medical attention.
Serious complications can occur in those with an acute kidney injury. If you suffer from a kidney injury or multiple injuries, it can result in the development of chronic kidney disease. You will need to see a kidney specialist who will decide your course of action and determine the severity of your condition.
The Progression From Acute Kidney Injury to Chronic Disease
According to the National Library of Medicine, acute kidney injury is not only linked to the progression of chronic kidney disease, but may cause chronic kidney disease as well. The two conditions are closely interconnected. In fact, acute kidney injury is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease, and chronic kidney disease is a risk factor for acute kidney injury.
Acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease are both risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Both kidney health issues are referred to as an interconnected syndrome. As an interconnected syndrome, they share similar risk factors, side effects, and outcomes.
The Risk Factors for Acute Kidney Injuries and Chronic Kidney Disease
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, kidneys remove wastes and extra fluids from the body. However, when this is interrupted, various health concerns may occur.
Kidneys also remove acid to allow the body to maintain a healthy balance of the following:
- Salts
- Water
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Calcium
When any of these become unbalanced, muscles, tissues, and nerves in the body may not work correctly. In addition to this, there is a wide range of risk factors for acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. Some risk factors include:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Genetic factors
- Cardiovascular disease
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
- Age
- Race or ethnic group
- Smoking or the use of tobacco products
Short-term and long-term effects of kidney disease can cause a variety of health problems.
Health Issues Associated With Kidney Injuries and Chronic Kidney Disease
To determine the progression of your kidney injury or diagnose a potential kidney disease, doctors may perform tests such as:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Imaging tests
- Kidney biopsy
- Physical exam
- Neurological exam
Those diagnosed with kidney problems may experience multiple, serious health issues. Some of the health issues a person with kidney injuries may experience include:
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Renal impairment
- Swelling in the hands or face
- Brain fog
- Urine discoloration
- Difficulty urinating
- Poor appetite
- Cramps
- Difficulty concentrating
When left untreated, chronic kidney disease or an acute kidney injury may lead to kidney failure. Kidney failure can worsen the disease, resulting in end-stage kidney disease.
If kidney failure occurs, dangerous complications can take place, such as:
- Anemia
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Nerve damage
- Fluid around the lungs
- Bone disease
- High blood pressure
Even if kidney failure happens, it is not a death sentence. You can continue to manage your condition by receiving treatment and health advice from a kidney specialist.
Treatment for Kidney Health
Those with unhealthy kidneys may consider treatment options to improve their daily life and soothe uncomfortable symptoms. Depending on the severity of the disease and how much it has progressed, some treatment options may not be applicable to your specific circumstance.
However, there are numerous treatments to improve kidney health. Consider the following:
- Dialysis to filter blood
- Medications to lower blood pressure, remove fluid from the body, and lower cholesterol levels
- Vitamin D to prevent bone loss
- Phosphate binders
- Kidney transplant
Treatments range from medications to a kidney transplant. To learn more about your treatment options and the best options for your condition, speak with a kidney specialist.
Find a Kidney Specialist Today
If you or a loved one is suffering from acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease, reach out to a kidney specialist such as Dr. Victor Gura to determine your treatment options. Begin your road to recovery when you receive care from a top-rated professional.