Acute Kidney Injury
Introduction Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days. This condition causes waste products to build up in the blood and makes it hard for the kidneys to maintain the right balance of fluid in the body. AKI can affect other organs such as the brain, heart, and lungs. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Types of Acute Kidney Injury There are three main types of Acute Kidney Injury: prerenal, intrinsic, and postrenal. Prerenal AKI occurs due to decreased blood flow to the kidneys. Intrinsic AKI is the result of direct damage to the kidneys themselves. Postrenal AKI is caused by a blockage in the urinary tract that prevents urine from leaving the kidneys. Risk Factors of Acute Kidney Injury Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing Acute Kidney Injury. These include advanced age, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, and high blo...