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Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, can occur due to a variety of causes. Some common causes include:
Chronic diseases: Conditions like diabetes and hypertension can lead to kidney damage over time, eventually resulting in kidney failure.
Acute kidney injury (AKI): This refers to a sudden loss of kidney function, often caused by severe infections, dehydration, shock, or medication toxicity.
Kidney diseases: Certain diseases directly affect the kidneys, such as glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, and lupus nephritis.
Obstruction: Blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or tumors, can obstruct urine flow and lead to kidney damage.
Certain medications: Some medications, especially if taken over a long period or at high doses, can be toxic to the kidneys and cause damage.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or vasculitis can cause inflammation in the kidneys, leading to damage and eventual failure.
Infections: Severe or recurrent kidney infections can cause scarring and damage to the kidneys, eventually leading to failure.
Genetic factors: Some kidney diseases are inherited, meaning they are caused by genetic mutations passed down through families.
Toxins and poisons: Exposure to certain toxins and heavy metals, such as lead or mercury, can damage the kidneys over time and lead to failure.
Trauma: Severe physical injury to the kidneys, such as from a car accident or a fall, can cause acute kidney injury or long-term damage.
It’s important to note that kidney failure can be acute or chronic. Acute kidney failure occurs suddenly and is often reversible if the underlying cause is identified and treated promptly. Chronic kidney failure develops over time and is usually irreversible, requiring ongoing management such as dialysis or kidney transplantation.