Kidney

The kidneys, along with the Lungs are one of the two major sets of paired organs in the body. They are located in the lower back, just below and to either side of the vertebral column in an area known as the retroperitoneal space; the left kidney being situated slightly higher than the right due to its larger size. The main function of the kidneys is to clean and process the blood via the removal of waste products and excess water.

Causes of Kidney Failure

ACUTE RENAL FAILURE

Pre-renal cause

• Blood loss
• Dehydration
• Diuretics
• Obstruction in renal artery / vein

Renal causes

• Sepsis, infection / inflammation
• Medication, toxic to the kidney
• Muscle break down

Post-renal cause

• Obstruction in the bladder / urethra, due to cancer, tumor or back pressure

CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE

• Unregulated diabetes
• Unregulated high blood pressure