Southern Oklahoma Kidney Center knows that a sudden kidney problem is very scary. Your health can change in just a few hours or days. We help people in Ardmore, OK, and Gainesville, TX, handle these emergencies. Acute kidney injury happens fast and needs quick action. It is a serious situation for your whole body.
What is Acute Kidney Injury and Why Does It Happen
Basically, acute kidney injury is when your kidneys stop working suddenly. It is not like a chronic disease that takes years. This happens because of a sudden drop in blood flow or a bad infection. It causes waste to build up in your blood way too fast. Recovery from acute kidney injury varies depending on the cause and severity of the condition.
Common Symptoms of Acute Kidney Injury
You might notice that you are not going to the bathroom much. Or your legs and feet might start to swell up a lot. Some people feel very tired or even confused. It is hard to catch because it looks like other sicknesses. But these are real signs of acute kidney injury. Look for these changes in your body.
How Acute Kidney Injury is Diagnosed
Doctors use a few different ways to see what is wrong. They will measure how much you urinate every hour. They also look at your blood for things like creatinine and urea. These numbers tell us if your kidneys are cleaning your blood well. Finding acute kidney injury early makes a huge difference in your recovery.
Blood and Urine Tests
A blood sample is the best way to check your chemical balance. We look for high levels of waste products. A urinalysis also shows if there is blood or protein leaking out. These tests are the first step in acute kidney injury management. They give us the facts we need to help you.
Imaging and Biopsy
Sometimes we need to see the kidneys using an ultrasound or a CT scan. This shows if there is a blockage. In select cases, a kidney biopsy may be considered when the cause of acute kidney injury is unclear. They take a tiny piece of tissue to look at under a microscope. It helps us find the exact problem inside.
Treatment Approaches for Acute Kidney Injury
Many patients require hospitalization for close monitoring and treatment. Your fluid levels need to be monitored. You can receive IV fluids or special medications to aid your kidneys. The idea is to have your kidneys rest to heal. In acute kidney injury, each instance is a little bit different.
Treating the Underlying Cause
We need to know the beginning of the problem. It might be a medicine that you have recently started taking. Or it could be an infection with high intensity that requires intense antibiotics. In case something is blocked by a kidney stone, it must be removed. It is crucial to repair the underlying cause of your health.
Managing Complications
High potassium is a big danger when your kidneys are struggling. We might use medicine to lower it so your heart stays safe. We also watch your blood pressure very closely. Balancing your electrolytes is a main part of acute kidney injury. It keeps your other organs working while your kidneys recover.
Dialysis for Acute Kidney Injury
Sometimes the kidneys need a machine to do the work for them. This is called hemodialysis. It pulls out the toxins and extra fluid your body cannot handle. In some cases, temporary dialysis may be needed to support the body while the kidneys recover. Using a dialyzer can save your life during a bad bout of acute kidney injury.
Care After Hospital Treatment
You will need to follow a special diet for a few weeks. This means eating foods that are low in potassium and salt. A dietitian can help you pick the right meals. You must be careful about how much water you drink, too. Protecting your kidneys at home helps you get stronger.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Write down all the medicines and vitamins you take every day. Tell your nephrologist about any new pains or changes in your urine. It is good to bring a family member along to listen. Ask questions about your test results. Being involved helps you recover from acute kidney injury much faster.
Southern Oklahoma Kidney Center is here to support you during this hard time. We provide expert care for all kinds of kidney issues. Our team wants to see you back on your feet. We offer the best tools for your recovery journey. Contact us today if you have any concerns. We are ready to help.
