Acute Kidney Injury Specialists in Bengaluru, Karnataka

What is Acute Kidney Injury?

Acute kidney injury is a sudden decline in kidney function occurring over hours to days, resulting in the buildup of waste products and disruption of the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. Unlike chronic kidney disease, which develops gradually, acute kidney injury arises abruptly, often triggered by a serious illness, severe dehydration, blocked urine flow, or exposure to certain medications or toxins that directly harm the kidneys. It is commonly seen in hospitalised patients, particularly those who are critically ill, undergoing major surgery, or experiencing severe infection, though it can also occur in otherwise healthy individuals from severe dehydration or an obstructing kidney stone. With prompt identification and treatment of the underlying cause, kidney function often recovers substantially, though severe or prolonged episodes can sometimes lead to lasting kidney damage. Close monitoring of kidney function is essential in anyone at risk, particularly during severe illness or after exposure to potentially harmful medications.

Causes of Acute Kidney Injury

Caused by conditions that reduce blood flow to the kidneys, such as severe dehydration, blood loss, or heart failure, direct damage to kidney tissue from infections, certain medications, or toxins, or obstruction of urine flow from kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or tumours. Critical illness, major surgery, and severe infections leading to sepsis are common triggers, particularly in hospitalised patients. Pre-existing kidney disease, diabetes, and older age increase susceptibility to acute kidney injury when exposed to any of these triggers.

Symptoms of Acute Kidney Injury

Decreased urine output, swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes, fatigue and confusion, nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath from fluid buildup, chest pain or pressure in severe cases, irregular heartbeat from electrolyte imbalance

Treatment & Types of Acute Kidney Injury in Bengaluru, Karnataka

Treatment focuses on promptly identifying and correcting the underlying cause, such as restoring adequate blood flow through fluid replacement, relieving urinary obstruction, or stopping harmful medications. Careful management of fluid balance, electrolytes, and blood pressure supports kidney recovery during the acute phase. Severe cases with significant toxin buildup or dangerous electrolyte imbalances may require temporary dialysis until kidney function recovers.

Nephrology Specialists in Bengaluru, Karnataka (1)

Frequently Asked Questions