Types of kidney failure

Kidney disease is classified as acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease based on the extent of the damage.

• Acute kidney failure has an abrupt onset and is potentially reversible.
• Chronic kidney failure progresses slowly over at least three months and can lead to permanent kidney failure.

In most cases, kidney failure is a permanent type of damage that is caused by a combination of health issues. When your kidneys are damaged they may not work as well as they should. If the damage to your kidneys is regular, the effect on the functioning would be profound and your condition can develop into chronic kidney disease. Kidney failure is the last most severe stage of chronic kidney disease. This is why kidney failure is also known as final stage renal disease or ESRD for short.

Causes of End Stage Renal Disease:

Diabetes is the most important and common cause of ESRD. High blood pressure is the second most important and common cause of ESRD. Other issues  that can cause kidney failure include:

• Stress
• Autoimmune diseases like  as lupus and IgA nephropathy
• Genetic diseases diseases you are born with like  as polycystic kidney disease
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Urinary tract problems

Acute Kidney Injury or Acute Renal Failure

Sometimes the kidneys can stop working properly suddenly within two days. This type of kidney failure is called acute kidney injury or acute renal failure. Common causes of acute renal failure include:

• Infection
• Pain Killers
• Heart attack

• Illegal drug use and drug abuse
• Not enough blood flowing to the kidneys
• Urinary tract issues

This type of kidney failure is not always permanent. Your kidneys can get normal with treatment and if you do not have other major health problems.

Having one of the health issues that can lead to kidney failure does not mean that you will definitely have kidney failure. Living a healthy lifestyle and working with your physician to control these health issues is the best way you can help your kidneys work for as long as possible.

If you have a problem of ESRD you will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive for life. There is no cure for ESRD  but so many people live long lives while having dialysis after having a kidney transplant. There are so many options for treating kidney failure, like kidney transplant and several types of dialysis. Your doctor can suggest which treatment suits you the best.