Early Detection Of Acute Kidney Injury: Key To Better Outcomes

Acute Kidney Injury, or AKI is when the kidneys stop working suddenly. It can happen in just a few hours or a few days. It usually happens when you are sick, with or without an infection; taking excessive medication , sudden loss of fluid in the body. If caught quickly, AKI can usually be treated. If not discovered at the early stage, it can cause other severe problems and may include damage to the kidneys over the long term.

In this blog, we will learn about why it is very important to catch AKI as soon as you can. You might save yourself from more serious problems. 

What Is AKI

The function of your kidneys is to filter waste and extra fluid from the blood. With AKI, kidneys slow down or stop filtering out waste and fluids. Waste builds up in the body, and this happens very quickly.

AKI typically occurs in hospital settings, and primarily in patients already sick. Patients with infections, low blood pressure, and those taking specific medications, such as pain medications or antibiotics, are likely to develop an AKI..

What Causes AKI

Some of the main reasons for AKI include:

• Loss of too much body fluid 
• Serious infections like sepsis 
• Heart problems or low blood flow 
• Use of medicines that affect kidney function 
• Blockages in the flow of urine 

Even something like food poisoning or fever with vomiting can lead to dehydration and cause AKI if not treated early.

How to Know If You Have AKI

In the beginning, AKI may not show any strong signs. That is what makes it tricky. Many people do not realise they have a problem until it becomes worse. But there are some signs to watch for.

These include:

• Passing less urine than usual 
• Swelling in the legs, feet, or around the eyes 
• Feeling very tired or confused 
• Nausea or shortness of breath 
• Sudden rise in blood pressure 

These signs may appear slowly or all of a sudden. Either way, it is important not to ignore them.

Why Finding It Early Matters

AKI is serious and needs quick care. If it is found early, it can often be reversed. Doctors will treat the cause, stop harmful medicines, give fluids, or manage infections.

If you wait too long, it can lead to:

• Lasting kidney disease 
• Need for dialysis 
• Problems with the heart 
• Damage that cannot be reversed 

People who get early help for AKI are less likely to face future kidney problems.

If you have had an infection, surgery, or illness and feel weak, swollen, or are not passing much urine, see a doctor. Blood and urine tests can quickly check your kidney health.

At Sugam Hospital, we help you take care of your kidneys before things get worse. If you are searching for the best nephrologist in Chennai, our experienced team is here to support you with the right advice and early care.