Acute Renal Failure (ARF)

Treatment

The treatment for acute renal failure depends upon the cause and extent of the kidney failure. It also depends on the extent to which accumulating wastes and water are affecting the body. After examining the main cause of ARF, a kidney specialist (nephrologist or urologist) can take treatment decisions about medications and the need for dialysis. The treatment will be focused on removing the cause of the kidney failure and may include :   Correcting the underlying cause of kidney failure, such as dehydration or medication toxicity. Providing supportive care for the kidneys through dialysis. Preventing other complications, such as infection or fluid or electrolyte imbalances.

Dialysis - It is a mechanical process that performs the work of healthy kidneys for people who have kidney failure. Before dialysis, a dialysis access has to the created in the patients body. Dialysis access is the spot where the needle can be inserted so that blood or other fluids can be removed, filtered, and returned to the body during dialysis. Hemodialysis and Peritoneal dialysis are the two types used in the treatment of ARF.

Hemodialysis - It is the most common and effective treatment for ARF, done by accessing the blood vessels through the skin. Hemodialysis uses a mechanical membrane (dialyzer) with a special filter that removes waste and excess water from the blood. The patient is connected to the machine by a tube running from a conduit created surgically between a large artery and vein. The blood is circulated through the artificial kidney, which removes toxins and wastes. The blood is then returned to your body. Hemodialysis typically takes 3-4 hours and is needed 3 times a week.

Peritoneal dialysis - The peritoneum is the clear membrane that covers the internal organs inside the abdomen. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdominal cavity as a filter to clean blood and remove excess fluid. A catheter is implanted into the abdomen by a minor surgical procedure and a fluid (dialysate solution) is infused through this. The dialysate solution, left for a few hours, capture and eliminate the waste products from your blood. The most common form of peritoneal dialysis called continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) changes dialysate four times a day.

After Treatment
ARF patients has to do appropriate lab tests and must follow a special diet. Substances that can poison or damage kidney tissues should be avoided. Drink enough fluids to keep the kidneys functioning as they should. They have to control the intake of protein and minerals. To stay healthy on being dialysis, it is important to eat the right number of calories and nutrients.