Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is End-Stage Kidney Failure?
- Causes of End-Stage Kidney Failure
- Symptoms of End-Stage Kidney Failure
- Diagnosis of End-Stage Kidney Failure
- Treatment of End-Stage Kidney Failure
- How Long Can You Live With End-Stage Kidney Failure?
- Prognosis of End-Stage Kidney Failure
- Conclusion
Introduction
End-stage kidney failure is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. It is a condition in which the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste and toxins from the body, resulting in a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream. End-stage kidney failure is a life-threatening condition and can lead to death if not treated promptly. In this article, we will discuss what end-stage kidney failure is, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. We will also discuss how long one can live with end-stage kidney failure and the prognosis associated with it.
What is End-Stage Kidney Failure?
End-stage kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), is a condition in which the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste and toxins from the body. This results in a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. End-stage kidney failure is the most severe form of kidney disease and is usually the result of long-term damage to the kidneys caused by other conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or chronic kidney disease.
Causes of End-Stage Kidney Failure
The most common causes of end-stage kidney failure are diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease. Other causes include glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, lupus, and certain medications.
Symptoms of End-Stage Kidney Failure
The symptoms of end-stage kidney failure can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, itching, and swelling in the hands and feet. Other symptoms may include confusion, difficulty concentrating, and changes in urination.
Diagnosis of End-Stage Kidney Failure
End-stage kidney failure is usually diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, urine tests, and imaging tests. Blood tests can measure levels of creatinine, a waste product that is normally filtered out by the kidneys, and urea, a waste product that is normally excreted in the urine. Urine tests can measure levels of proteins and other substances that are normally filtered out by the kidneys. Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or CT scans, can be used to look for signs of damage to the kidneys.
Treatment of End-Stage Kidney Failure
Treatment for end-stage kidney failure typically involves dialysis or a kidney transplant. Dialysis is a procedure in which a machine is used to filter waste and toxins from the blood. A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney is transplanted into the body of a person with end-stage kidney failure.
How Long Can You Live With End-Stage Kidney Failure?
The prognosis for end-stage kidney failure varies depending on the underlying cause and the treatment that is received. Generally, people with end-stage kidney failure who receive dialysis or a kidney transplant can expect to live for several years. However, the average life expectancy for people with end-stage kidney failure is 5-10 years.
Prognosis of End-Stage Kidney Failure
The prognosis for end-stage kidney failure is generally good if the underlying cause is treated promptly and the patient receives proper medical care. Treatment options such as dialysis or a kidney transplant can help extend life expectancy and improve quality of life.
Conclusion
End-stage kidney failure is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. It is a condition in which the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste and toxins from the body, resulting in a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream. Treatment for end-stage kidney failure typically involves dialysis or a kidney transplant. The prognosis for end-stage kidney failure is generally good if the underlying cause is treated promptly and the patient receives proper medical care. The average life expectancy for people with end-stage kidney failure is 5-10 years.
Sources:
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National Kidney Foundation. (2020). End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Retrieved from https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/endstagerenaldisease
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Mayo Clinic. (2020). End-stage renal disease (ESRD). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/end-stage-renal-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20354543