Acute Kidney Injury Stages: Cause & Treatment

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Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden and rapid loss of kidney function, often caused by a variety of factors. The severity of AKI is categorised into stages based on the level of kidney damage and the resulting decrease in kidney function.

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Stage 1 Acute Kidney Injury

This is the initial stage, wherein, a person is not aware of the condition and does not experience any symptoms.

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Stage 2 Acute Kidney Injury

Oligo-anuria is the second stage, where a person will start experiencing urinating less frequently. Less frequent urination will cause fluid retention, high blood pressure, accumulation of waste products and even heart failure.

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Stage 3 Acute Kidney Injury

In polyuria, a person’s kidney function will slowly restore. However, they may still experience water and electrolyte loss, especially of potassium and sodium. Low potassium levels can result in irregular heart rhythms.

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Stage 4 Acute Kidney Injury

In the restitution stage, the kidney function entirely restores.

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Reduced Blood Supply

Acute kidney injury can occur due to reduced blood flow to the kidneys, which may result from organ failure, major surgery, low blood pressure, a heart attack, fluid or blood loss, severe allergic reactions or overuse of anti-inflammatory drugs.

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Direct Kidney Damage

Direct damage to the kidneys can cause AKI. This can occur due to multiple myeloma, sepsis, vasculitis, scleroderma, and conditions that can cause inflammation and damage to the filtering units, tubules and small blood vessels of the kidneys.

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Urinary Tract Blockage

Another cause of AKI is urinary tract blockage. The causes include prostate or cervical cancer, an enlarged prostate gland, kidney stones, blood clots in the urinary tract and certain nervous system conditions that can affect urination and bladder function.

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Medications

AKI treatment can vary based on the cause and severity of the condition. Your doctor may prescribe medications to control blood pressure and adjust electrolyte levels. They may also suggest diuretics to eliminate excess accumulation of fluid in the body.

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Dialysis & Diet Changes

The doctor may suggest temporary dialysis for people with severe AKI. They will also recommend diet changes, which may involve restricting salt, fluid intake and foods high in potassium.

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