What is renal failure?

Renal failure (kidney failure) is described as the increasing loss of renal function over a certain period. This serious renal disease makes it impossible to eliminate urine every day. This results in the build-up of toxic substances (uremia) such as ammonia. This disease can be caused by many factors.

Kidney function

The kidneys, which work in pairs, clean the body and keep the circulatory system functioning. Around 1,700 liters of blood flow through the kidneys every day for filtering.
Together with water, metabolic products and toxic substances are eliminated as urine. The renal function also maintains the concentration of electrolytes and the water content, which regulates the acid-base balance and the osmotic pressure of the body's fluids. The kidneys are also involved in the regulation of blood pressure and the production of blood.

How does renal failure occur?

Long-term diabetes mellitus and high blood pressure are among the major risk factors for renal failure. Others, such as autoimmune disease or congenital conditions may also lead to the loss of renal function. Excess weight is also recognized as a cause of renal failure.

The renal function becomes weaker and weaker. If too much of the kidney tissue is destroyed as a consequence of these diseases, the renal function may cease to work altogether. The kidneys fail.

Metabolic products, some of which are toxic, accumulate in the body due to renal failure and cannot be eliminated. If it is not treated (through dialysis), this condition is life-threatening.

Consequences of kidney failure

In addition to arteriosclerosis, hyperparathyroidism and renal anemia, uremia (a build-up of toxic substances in the body) may occur. Dialysis also requires a suitable environment for inflammation. Metabolic acidosis and polyneuropathy may also be consequences of renal failure.