What is end-stage renal failure?

National Kidney Foundation

End-stage renal failure, or kidney failure, occurs when your kidneys are no longer able to support you in a reasonably healthy state, and dialysis or transplantation is needed. This happens when your kidneys function at only 10% to 15%.

Three types of treatment can be used once your kidneys have failed: kidney transplantation, hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Continue Learning about Kidney Failure (Acute Kidney Failure)

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Caring for someone with postrenal acute renal failure involves helping them follow medical advice. S...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Preventing prerenal acute renal failure is complicated because it can be caused by a number of thing...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Intrinsic acute renal failure is a condition when your kidneys suddenly lose the ability to filter o...

National Kidney Foundation

If you have had an organ transplant, you will often not have signs or symptoms of kidney damage unle...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Kidney Failure (Acute Kidney Failure)

Acute kidney failure happens when your kidneys lose their ability to rid your body of waste, excess fluid and salts. When your kidneys no longer filter properly, the fluids, salts and wastes accumulate in your body. Acute kidney failure develops quickly, within hours or days. Signs can include urinating less, swelling in your legs, ankles or feet because of the fluid you're retaining, drowsiness, shortness of breath and fatigue. You are most at risk of acute kidney failure if you are hospitalized with another serious problem that requires intensive care. Other risk factors include being elderly, having diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure and liver disease. Acute kidney failure can be fatal. However, it can be successfully treated with drugs and dialysis.

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