What are the symptoms of ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY?

• Decreased urine output
• The colour of your urine may change
• Swelling in legs, ankles, or around the eyes
• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion
• Nausea

What causes ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY?

• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure):
• Heart Conditions:
• Infections
• Kidney Stones
• Severe Allergic Reactions

How will my AKI be treated?

The treatment for Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) focuses on addressing the underlying cause, managing symptoms, and supporting kidney function to allow recovery.

The primary approach begins with identifying and treating the cause of the kidney injury. For instance, if the cause is dehydration or blood loss, intravenous (IV) fluids are administered to restore blood volume. In cases where blood pressure is low, medications may be given to increase blood pressure and improve kidney perfusion. Infections that contribute to AKI are treated with appropriate antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals, depending on the type of infection.

If AKI results from an obstruction in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or tumors, surgical interventions might be necessary to remove the blockage. Catheterization can be used to relieve obstructions caused by an enlarged prostate. When medications are the cause of kidney damage, a thorough review of the patient's medications is conducted, and nephrotoxic drugs are discontinued or adjusted as needed.

Supportive care is crucial in managing AKI. This includes correcting electrolyte imbalances with medications and IV fluids, as well as controlling fluid overload through the use of diuretics or fluid restriction. Regular blood tests are conducted to monitor kidney function and electrolytes, while symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and fatigue are managed accordingly.

If your kidneys are very damaged, your blood may need to be cleaned by a machine. This is called dialysis. You may only need to be on this for a short amount of time until your kidneys recover.