While the kidneys are remarkable organs known for their remarkable filtration and waste elimination functions, various factors can disrupt their delicate balance, triggering Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). It is a sudden and rapid deterioration in kidney function and is a serious medical condition that can have far-reaching consequences. We spoke to Dr Mohit Khirbat, Senior Consultant, Nephrologist, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, who listed factors that can lead to AKI.
Factors That Lead To Acute Kidney Injury
According to StatPearls, AKI, formerly referred to as acute renal failure, describes a sudden and potentially reversible decline in kidney function. This decline is assessed through elevated creatinine levels or decreased urine volume.
Dehydration
Dr Khirbat said, “Dehydration due to any cause, such as nausea, vomiting, or heat stroke may lead to acute kidney injury. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.” When the body becomes dehydrated, there is a decreased volume of blood flowing to the kidneys, which can impact their ability to function properly.
Blood Loss
Dr Khirbat highlighted, “Sudden and significant blood loss usually leads to a fall in blood pressure, such as in a road traffic accident, trauma, severe blood loss in surgery, and sometimes during delivery can lead to AKI.” Blood loss can result in a condition known as hypovolemia, which is a reduced blood volume in the body. Hypovolemia can have detrimental effects on the kidneys and their ability to function properly, potentially leading to AKI.
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Medications
Dr Khirbat said that even some medications may cause acute kidney injury. This includes painkillers, some injectable antibiotics like aminoglycosides, and radiocontrast agents, such as those used in CT scans or angiography. They can cause AKI by damaging the kidney tissues or interfering with their blood supply.
Severe Infections
Dr Khirbat added, “Severe infections can also lead to acute kidney injury, especially if the patient develops multi-organ dysfunction and has a fall in blood pressure. They can trigger a systemic inflammatory response that affects multiple organs, including the kidneys. The immune response can lead to reduced blood flow, inflammation, and direct damage to kidney tissues, causing AKI.”
Urinary Problem
Obstruction to the urine outflow due to kidney stones can also lead to AKI. The urinary system plays a crucial role in eliminating waste products and excess fluids from the body. Any disruptions in this system can have a cascading effect that impacts kidney function.
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Underlying Health Conditions
People with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease are at an increased risk of developing AKI. These conditions can impact the blood vessels and overall blood flow to the kidneys, making them more susceptible to injury.
Surgery and Medical Procedures
Surgical procedures, especially those that involve complex surgeries or require the use of contrast dyes, can put stress on the kidneys. The combination of surgical stress, potential blood loss, and exposure to certain substances can contribute to the development of AKI.
Age and Frailty
Elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems or frailty are more vulnerable to AKI. Age-related changes in kidney function and reduced physiological reserves make these populations more susceptible to the factors that can cause AKI.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult with your expert if you notice any symptoms of acute kidney injury to avoid complications.
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