kidney failure

Health Library

Featured Topics

Diseases & Conditions

Go Back

kidney failure

There are 2 kidneys on either side of the spine, each about the size of a fist. A major function of the kidneys is to remove waste products and excess fluids from the body. These waste products and fluids are removed through the urine. The critical regulation of the body's salt, potassium and acid content is performed by the kidneys. They also produce hormones that affect the function of other organs. The kidneys also:

remove drugs from the body
balance the body's fluids
release hormones that regulate blood pressure
produce a form of Vitamin D that promotes strong bones
control the production of red blood cells

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

lethargy
weakness
urinating less than normal
awaking at night to urinate
loss of appetite
drowsiness
seizures

Treatments

Treatment may include:

surgery
diuretics
diet modification
dialysis
organ transplant

Types

Types of kidney failure include:

acute – person’s kidney’s stop working as a result of exposure to toxic agents, an immune reaction to a drug, or the result of an infection or disease that affects the kidneys
chronic – usually caused by diabetes, or other diseases/infections that affect the kidneys. Overuse of drugs containing heavy metals may also lead to chronic kidney failure
end-stage – most advanced form of kidney failure, kidneys can no longer function

News
RWJ Hamilton Earns an “A” in Patient Safety by Hospital Safety Score Strides for Stroke 5K Run/2K Walk Set for July 11th Care Around the Corner - Read Holly's Story More News >>

Events
Jun 20: Grief & Loss Group for Older Adults Jun 21: Advanced Cardiac Life Support Renewal Jun 25: A "Heads Up" on Concussions Jun 25: Breastfeeding Class - 1 Week- Jun 25: Safe Sitter - Baby Sitting More Events >>