Renal Failure

Renal failure refers to the failure of the kidney’s nephrons to maintain normal functions. With all the vital functions to perform, renal failure results in serious consequences. Renal failure can occur suddenly (acute) or over a period of time (chronic). Oftentimes acute renal failure is only temporary while chronic renal failure is irreversible.

Probable Causes

• Damage to kidneys as in:

1. Nephritis
2. Renal artery obstruction
3. Nephritic syndrome
4. Kidney stones
5. Renal tubular disorders 

• Diabetes 

• Hypertension

• Atherosclerosis

Probable Symptoms

• Reduced or no renal output

• Increased blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and uric acid

• Uremic syndrome in severe stage which include:

1. Fatigue
2. Weakness
3. Decreased mental alertness
4. Muscular twitches
5. Muscle cramps
6. Anorexia  (See Underweight)
7. Nausea
8. Vomiting
9. Stomatitis
10. Unpleasant taste in the mouth
11. Itchiness of skin (See Infection)
12. Gastrointestinal ulcers
13. Bleeding

• Common in later stages where virtually every system in the body is adversely affected.

Note: As renal failure progresses to a severe stage, the buildup of toxic waste products in the blood (uremia) results in a complex of symptoms called the uremic syndrome.

Helpful Dietary Management

• Eat a diet low in salt.

• A low protein diet may be given depending on the loss of kidney function during the acute renal failure. Protein is a major source of metabolic waste products.

• Restrict amount of water intake to the amount of water loss.

• Take calories from carbohydrates and fats. Include an abundance of fruits.

Reference: Healing Wonders of Diet Effective Guide to Diet Therapy p.53-54 © 2003 Philippine Publishing House ISBN 971-581-013-6