Kidney problems can develop suddenly or over a long period of time.
The rapid loss of kidney function is calledacute kidney injury (AKI).
It is typically due to an event like dehydration, blood loss, or a urinary tract obstruction.
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In some people, CKD can lead to end-stage renal disease, in which the kidneys completely cease functioning.
Difference Between Acute Kidney Injury and Chronic Kidney Disease
Thekidneysfunction as the body’s filtration system.
The termacuteis used when the onset of symptoms is sudden and a significant change from normal.
The termchronicis used when the problem is long-developing and persistent.
This is evidenced by adecrease in urine outputand/or an increase of a waste product calledcreatininein blood tests.
Prerenal AKIis characterized by the reduced flow of blood to both kidneys.
These include:
Postrenal AKIis characterized by the downstream obstruction of urine from the kidneys.
An example includes severe dehydration in someone taking medications toxic to the kidneys.
Treatment
The treatment for AKI typically requires a hospital stay.
CKD affects more than 1 of every 7 adults in the United States or roughly 35.5 million people.
Of these, only 1 in 10 are aware that they have kidney disease.
Depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment can be found in people with CKD.
This starts with the identification and management of the underlying cause.
Summary
There are many conditions that can reduce the function of the kidneys either suddenly or gradually.
AKI and CKD also differ in their symptoms and treatment.
You often don’t.
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