What Happens When Kidneys Stop Working Properly?
What Happens When Kidneys Stop Working Properly?
Blog Article
What Happens When Kidneys Stop Working Properly?
Your kidneys may be small, but they perform life-sustaining tasks every minute of the day. These bean-shaped organs filter waste, balance fluids and electrolytes, regulate blood pressure, and even support red blood cell production. So, what happens when your kidneys stop working properly?
To manage kidney problems such as chronic kidney disease or high blood pressure, it’s important to find the right nephrologist in Pune. Look for a skilled and experienced doctor who has access to top medical facilities. Choose someone who listens to your concerns, explains your treatment options clearly, and offers care tailored to your needs. Be sure to read patient reviews and confirm that the clinic is conveniently located for regular visits. A caring healthcare team is also an added bonus. The right nephrologist will make kidney health management much easier.
Understanding Kidney Dysfunction
When your kidneys begin to lose their ability to function, it's called kidney failure or renal failure. This can happen suddenly (acute kidney injury) or gradually over time (chronic kidney disease, or CKD). In both cases, your body starts to struggle with waste buildup, fluid overload, and chemical imbalances.
Waste Buildup in the Blood
One of the kidneys' primary roles is to filter waste products from the blood, including urea and creatinine. When kidney function declines:
- These waste products accumulate in the bloodstream
- You may experience fatigue, confusion, nausea, and itching
- In advanced stages, this buildup can lead to a condition called uremia, which can be life-threatening
Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalance
Failing kidneys can’t effectively manage the body's fluid balance. This may cause:
- Swelling (edema) in the legs, feet, or around the eyes
- Shortness of breath from fluid buildup in the lungs
- Dangerous shifts in electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and calcium, which can cause irregular heart rhythms, muscle weakness, or seizures
Blood Pressure and Heart Problems
The kidneys help regulate blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin system. When kidney function drops:
- Blood pressure may rise uncontrollably (hypertension)
- High blood pressure, in turn, worsens kidney damage, creating a vicious cycle
- Risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart failure increases significantly
Anemia and Bone Health Issues
Your kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which signals the bone marrow to make red blood cells. Damaged kidneys may produce less, leading to:
- Anemia, causing fatigue and weakness
They also regulate calcium and phosphate levels. Imbalance can lead to:
- Bone thinning and fractures
- Calcium deposits in blood vessels and tissues
What Happens in End-Stage Kidney Disease?
When kidneys lose about 85-90% of their function, it’s considered end-stage renal disease (ESRD). At this point, you may need:
- Dialysis, a procedure that filters your blood
- Or a kidney transplant for long-term treatment
Conclusion
When kidneys stop working properly, every system in your body feels the impact. But early detection, healthy lifestyle changes, and proper treatment can slow or even prevent further damage. Protect your kidneys now because they protect you every day.
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