Article: Acute kidney failure is usually diagnosed in people who are already hospitalized. However, if you’re not in the hospital, have a common underlying cause of kidney failure, and experience symptoms, you’ll need to see a doctor immediately.  Common causes of acute kidney failure include injury, blood clots, urethral blockages, severe dehydration, drug overdose, alcohol abuse, and infection. Symptoms of kidney failure include urination changes (such as producing little or no urine), fatigue or sluggish movements, metallic taste in your mouth, pain between your ribs and hips, seizures, and swelling due to water retention, especially in your legs, ankles and feet. Your doctor will need to perform tests to diagnose the underlying cause. They’ll then clear a blockage or clot, administer antibiotics, or take other steps to treat the underlying condition. While treating the underlying cause, you’ll receive medication to help control your fluid levels and blood potassium. During and after treatment, you’ll need to eat more healthy carbohydrates, such as fruits and vegetables. You’ll also need to limit the amounts of protein, salt, and potassium in your diet.  High protein foods include red meat, poultry, and eggs. Instead of these, you’d need to eat more fruits, vegetables, and foods that are high in fiber, like brown rice, lentils, and raspberries.   You’ll also need to swap high potassium foods, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes, for low potassium options, such as apples, cabbage, grapes, green beans, and strawberries.  Always read the label on prepackaged and processed foods to make sure you’re not eating things with high amounts of sodium. Some people who experience acute kidney failure require dialysis, which is a procedure that filters blood when your kidneys can’t function. It’s often only temporary, but cases of severe kidney damage might require long-term dialysis.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Get immediate help if you experience symptoms. Start treatment for the underlying cause. Make kidney-friendly dietary changes. Ask your doctor if you need dialysis.