Early detection of the underlying causes of acute kidney injury can significantly improve treatment outcomes, according to Dr. Nika Kristine Lee, chief fellow of Adult Nephrology at Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center. Speaking at a health forum organized by the Philippine College of Physicians, Dr. Lee emphasized the importance of timely intervention and supportive management in reversing acute kidney injury, also known as acute renal failure.
Acute kidney injury is a reversible condition, and once the underlying causes are identified and addressed, kidney function can improve. Dr. Lee highlighted that the primary treatment for acute kidney injury is supportive management, which involves addressing the specific cause of the condition.
Dr. Lee provided an example to illustrate this point. In cases where acute kidney injury is caused by volume loss due to factors such as diarrhea, vomiting, or poor food choices, the treatment is as simple as ensuring proper hydration.
It is important to understand that the term “acute” refers to the temporary nature of the condition. Acute renal failure typically lasts for a duration of two to seven days. To determine if someone has acute renal failure, healthcare professionals look for elevated creatinine levels and a sudden decrease in urine volume.
The normal range for creatinine levels in men is 0.7 to 1.3 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for women. Additionally, the normal urine volume is between 50-100 milliliters.
While pelvic pain is often mistakenly associated with kidney problems, Dr. Lee advised individuals to seek medical checkups, including urinalysis and creatinine tests, if they suspect they may have a kidney problem. She explained that the location of the pain can be misleading, and it is crucial not to ignore the possibility of kidney-related issues.
According to the National Institute of Health, each person has two kidneys, roughly the size of a fist. Their primary function is to filter excess water and waste from the blood, eliminating them from the body through urine. The kidneys are located just below the rib cage area, near the spine.
Contrary to popular belief, acute renal failure is not limited to elderly individuals or those with pre-existing conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Dr. Lee emphasized that anyone can develop acute renal failure, though certain factors may increase the risk.
“As we age, there is a natural decline in physiological function, which puts senior citizens at a higher risk of acquiring the disease. However, it’s important to recognize that even individuals in younger age brackets can also develop acute renal failure. Each case is unique,” Dr. Lee explained.
During the forum, Dr. Lee shared valuable tips for kidney care. She highlighted the significance of maintaining a healthy diet, managing normal blood pressure levels, avoiding smoking, and staying adequately hydrated.
While the general recommendation is to consume at least eight glasses of water per day, Dr. Lee noted that in some cases, individuals may need to increase their fluid intake to replenish volume losses.
Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in managing acute kidney injury. By understanding the underlying causes and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their kidney health and overall well-being.
Source: The Manila Times
