Renal impairment

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Renal Impairment

Renal impairment or kidney dysfunction (pronunciation: /rɪˈneɪl ɪmˈpeɪrmənt/ or /ˈkɪdni dɪsˈfʌŋkʃən/) refers to the condition where the kidneys are unable to function properly.

Etymology

The term "renal" is derived from the Latin word "renes", meaning kidneys, while "impairment" comes from the Old French "empeirier", meaning to make worse.

Definition

Renal impairment is a medical condition characterized by the kidneys' inability to effectively filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. It can be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term), and its severity can range from mild to severe.

Symptoms

Symptoms of renal impairment may include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, poor appetite, trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, swollen feet and ankles, puffiness around the eyes, dry, itchy skin, and the need to urinate more often, especially at night.

Causes

Renal impairment can be caused by a number of conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, prolonged obstruction of the urinary tract, and certain toxic chemicals or medications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of renal impairment typically involves blood tests to measure levels of waste products, such as creatinine and urea, as well as imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scans. A kidney biopsy may also be performed in some cases.

Treatment

Treatment for renal impairment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. It may include medications to control symptoms, dietary changes, dialysis, or in severe cases, kidney transplant.

Related Terms

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