Kidney failure and why it's killing the youths

Here's a comprehensive overview of kidney failure:

*Definition:* Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood.

*Types:*

1. Acute kidney injury (AKI): sudden loss of kidney function

2. Chronic kidney disease (CKD): gradual loss of kidney function over time

3. End-stage renal disease (ESRD): severe kidney damage requiring dialysis or transplant

*Causes:*

1. Diabetes

2. High blood pressure

3. Kidney inflammation (nephritis)

4. Kidney damage (nephrosis)

5. Inherited disorders (e.g., polycystic kidney disease)

6. Medications (e.g., NSAIDs)

7. Toxins (e.g., heavy metals)

*Symptoms:*

1. Fatigue

2. Swelling (edema)

3. Nausea and vomiting

4. Abnormal urine output

5. Pale or itchy skin

6. Muscle cramps

7. Breathlessness

*Treatment:*

1. Dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis)

2. Kidney transplant

3. Medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers)

4. Lifestyle changes (e.g., diet, exercise, stress reduction)

*Prevention:*

1. Manage underlying conditions (diabetes, hypertension)

2. Maintain a healthy weight

3. Exercise regularly

4. Avoid harmful substances (e.g., tobacco, heavy metals)

5. Stay hydrated

*Diet for Kidney Failure:*

1. Low-protein diet

2. Low-sodium diet

3. Low-potassium diet

4. Avoid phosphorus-rich foods

5. Stay hydrated

*Complications:*

1. Anemia

2. Bone disease

3. Cardiovascular disease

4. Fluid overload

5. Electrolyte imbalance

*Prognosis:*

Depends on the underlying cause and severity of kidney failure. With proper treatment, many patients with kidney failure can lead active and productive lives.

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