Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a sudden decline in kidney function that occurs within a short time, usually over a few hours or days. The kidneys fail to filter waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, causing toxins to build up in the body. AKI is commonly seen in hospitalized patients, particularly those with serious infections, trauma, or after major surgeries. Without timely treatment, AKI can lead to severe health complications.

There are three primary causes of AKI: prerenal, intrinsic, and postrenal. Prerenal causes involve reduced blood flow to the kidneys due to dehydration, low blood pressure, or heart failure. Intrinsic causes result from direct damage to the kidneys, often from infections, toxins, or medications. Postrenal causes occur when urinary obstructions, like kidney stones or tumors, block the flow of urine and increase pressure on the kidneys.

The symptoms of AKI can vary but typically include reduced urine output, swelling in the legs and feet, nausea, fatigue, and confusion. In severe cases, patients may experience shortness of breath or chest pain due to fluid buildup. AKI can also lead to dangerous complications, such as high potassium levels, which can cause heart problems. Early diagnosis through blood and urine tests is essential to managing AKI effectively.

Treatment for AKI focuses on resolving the underlying cause. This may involve restoring blood flow to the kidneys, treating infections, or removing blockages in the urinary tract. In more severe cases, temporary dialysis may be required to filter the blood while the kidneys recover. With prompt medical intervention, many cases of AKI can be reversed, but if untreated, it may lead to chronic kidney disease or permanent kidney damage.