Posted on June 30th, 2023
- Diabetes. Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure in the United States, accounting for about 37% of cases. High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time, leading to kidney failure.
- High blood pressure. High blood pressure is another major cause of kidney failure, accounting for about 28% of cases. High blood pressure can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure.
- Polycystic kidney disease. Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder that causes fluid-filled cysts to grow in the kidneys. These cysts can eventually damage the kidneys and lead to kidney failure.
- Acute kidney injury. Acute kidney injury is a sudden loss of kidney function that can be caused by a number of factors, including infections, medications, and trauma. In some cases, acute kidney injury can lead to chronic kidney disease.
- Glomerulonephritis. Glomerulonephritis is a group of diseases that affect the tiny filters in the kidneys (glomeruli). These diseases can damage the glomeruli and lead to kidney failure.
- Renal artery stenosis. Renal artery stenosis is a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys. This narrowing can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure.
- Urinary tract obstruction. Urinary tract obstruction is a blockage in the urinary tract that can prevent urine from flowing out of the body. This blockage can damage the kidneys and lead to kidney failure.
- Lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can damage many organs in the body, including the kidneys. Kidney damage is a common complication of lupus, and it can lead to kidney failure.
- HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS can damage the kidneys in a number of ways, including through kidney infections and kidney failure.
- Certain medications. Some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can damage the kidneys and lead to kidney failure.
It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of all the possible causes of kidney failure. Other causes include infections, cancer, and congenital disorders.
If you have any of the risk factors for kidney failure, it is important to see your doctor regularly for checkups. Early detection and treatment can help prevent or delay kidney failure.