Chronic Renal failure (CRF)

The kidney acts like a filter and removes the toxins like urea, creatinine from the blood in the form of urine. When the kidney is paralyzed to perform this function, Chronic Renal failure occurs. It is also known as Chronic Kidney disease(CKD). It is divided into 5 stages (stage 1 or early to advanced stage 5) depending on the severity of kidney injury. Toxins and water build up in the body gradually on regular basis. CKD cannot be reversed or cured, but if diagnosed early can be controlled well from progressing to advance stages. In initial stages he or she can be maintained with medications alone. When the toxins reach dangerously high levels ie stage 5 of CKD, then the patient will require dialysis. Kidney failure can occur at any age, from children to adults to old age.

Reasons for Chronic Renal Failure:

• Diabetes
• Hypertension- High Blood Pressure
• Inherited kidney diseases like Polycystic kidney disease
• Autoimmune Disorders
• Un treated or improperly treated acute kidney injury (AKI/ARF)

Symptoms of Chronic Renal Failure:

• Mostly patients have no or little symptoms till late in the stages.
• Frequent urination during the nights, may be the earliest symptom.
• Decreased urination
• Swelling of legs/ puffiness of face
• Shortness of Breath
• Drastic weight loss
• Bad breath
• Nausea and Loss of appetite