07/10/2025
KIDNEY FAILURE (RENAL FAILURE)
Definition:
Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, is a condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products, balance electrolytes, regulate fluid balance, and remove excess toxins from the blood.
It can be:
Acute Kidney Failure (AKF): sudden loss of kidney function, often reversible.
Chronic Kidney Failure (CKF): gradual and irreversible loss of kidney function over months or years.
Types of Kidney Failure
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI):
Occurs suddenly due to dehydration, infections, shock, or drug toxicity.
Often reversible if treated early.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD):
Progressive and irreversible kidney damage caused by long-standing diseases like hypertension and diabetes.
Causes of Kidney Failure
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Diabetes mellitus
Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters)
Prolonged use of nephrotoxic drugs (e.g. NSAIDs, gentamicin)
Obstruction of urinary tract (stones, tumors, enlarged prostate)
Severe infections (malaria, HIV, hepatitis)
Prolonged dehydration and shock
Excessive use of herbal or bleaching mixtures
Severe burns or trauma leading to fluid loss
Autoimmune diseases (e.g. lupus nephritis)
Why Kidney Failure is Rampant in Nigeria
Uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes
Widespread use of unregulated herbal medicines
Self-medication and drug abuse (painkillers, antibiotics, bleaching creams)
Poor health-seeking behavior and late hospital presentation
Poverty and poor access to quality healthcare
Lack of regular medical check-ups
High prevalence of infectious diseases (malaria, hepatitis, HIV)
Unhealthy lifestyle β high salt intake, low water consumption, smoking, alcohol use
Predisposing Factors
Hypertension
Diabetes mellitus
Obesity
Family history of kidney disease
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Dehydration
Aging (older adults at higher risk)
Prolonged use of nephrotoxic drugs
Exposure to toxins or heavy metals
Poorly treated infections
