Causes of Kidney Failure

The kidneys serve several vital roles in the human body. Kidneys filter blood and remove waste products, balance electrolyte levels, control blood pressure and stimulate red blood cell production. The body would not be able to survive without these physiological processes. As a result, kidney disease and kidney failure are life threatening ailments that must be treated immediately. Continue reading to learn about the causes of kidney failure.

Diabetes

• Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most common causes of kidney disease and failure. It is caused when the pancreatic gland is unable to produce enough insulin, which makes blood sugar levels difficult for the body to regulate. These frequent changes in blood sugar often damage the kidneys. Also, when a person suffers from diabetes, his small blood vessels become damaged over time. This makes blood flow to and from the kidneys difficult, which, in turn, hinders the kidneys' ability to function properly.

High Blood Pressure

• Another common cause of kidney failure is high blood pressure, also called hypertension. High blood pressure means that the pressure in your veins is above its normal rate. This causes complications for your kidneys and makes them work harder in order to properly function. It is possible to regulate your blood pressure with appropriate food, exercise and medication. Good control of blood pressure will delay kidney failure and prolong your life.

Hardened Arteries

• Arteries in your body can become hardened for various reasons, but the most common cause is a result of fat build up that hardens into a substance called plaque. This complication poses a serious threat to the entire body, including the kidneys. The hardened arteries narrow the space where blood flows, which means the kidneys aren't getting enough blood. When the kidneys don't get enough blood, they can eventually fail.

Trauma

• High amounts of blood loss are known to cause sudden kidney failure. This is because the kidneys need a healthy supply of blood flowing to them at all times. Trauma can occur in sports, from car accidents and any time the body is punctured and looses a lot of blood.

Poisons/Toxins

• Another cause of kidney failure is a result of either poison or toxins that are consumed. For example, some medications can cause certain individuals to experience kidney failure. Because of this, it's important to know which medications you are allergic to and to understand the side effects of all your medications. Alcohol can also serve as a poison if consumed too quickly, and too much over time can cause the kidneys to gradually fail. Fortunately, because of the nature of kidneys, kidney failure as a result of poisons/toxins can often be reversed.