What is kidney damage

Kidney damage can be defined as a An upper urinary tract injury is one sustained by the kidneys and ureters. It is also known as a kidney injury ,fractured kidney , Bruised kidney and Ureteral injury.

Causes of Kidney Damage

The kidneys are located in the flank (back of the upper abdomen at either side of the spinal column). They are deep within the abdomen and are protected by the spine, lower rib cage, and the strong muscles of the back. This location is a protection cover of for the kidneys. Kidneys are highly vascular organs ( that means they have a large blood supply ) .Kidney damage may results severe bleeding . The extent of bleeding depends on the location and the degree of injury. Kidneys may also bleed profusely if they are damaged centrally (on the inside) -- this is a life-threatening injury. Other causes of kidney injury and bleeding are medical procedures. Kidney biopsies, nephrostomy tube placements, or other surgeries can cause an abnormal connection between an artery and vein (arteriovenous fistula). Injury to the kidney can also disrupt the urinary tract, causing leakage of the urine from the kidney. Analgesic nephropathy is one of the most common types of toxic damage to the kidney. Exposure to lead, cleaning products, solvents, fuels, or other nephrotoxic chemicals (those which can be toxic to the kidney) can damage kidneys.

Signs And Symptoms of Kidney damage

Symptoms of Kidney damage are given below -
1) Flank pain
2) Blooded Urine
3) Abdominal pain
4) Fever
5) Vomiting
6) Frequent heart rate
7) Pale skin
8) Sweating
9) Skin cool to touch
10) decreased urine output
11) inability to urinate
12) Weight loss
13) Constipation


Treatment of Kidney Damage

Treatment goals include treatment of emergency symptoms and prevention or treatment of complications. For pain relief Analgesics may be needed .The treatment includes the Hospitalization and close observation in the case of internal loss of blood from a traumatically damaged kidney .In 20 % cases kidney damage , emergency surgery is required . Surgical repair of a fractured kidney , torn ureter, torn blood vessels or similar injury may spare the kidney from removal. The timing of the surgical exploration depends on the location, the extent of injury, and the overall clinical situation. Surgical removal or repair of clots or other obstructions may correct injury caused by damage to blood vessels or the ureter.

Prevention

1) External damage may be prevented by using general safety precaution -- using appropriate safety equipment during work and play, wearing seat belts, and driving safely.
2) Toxic injury often may be prevented by properly observing the directions for use of medications or other products.
3) Follow the directions of the health care provider for use of all medications, including over-the-counter medications.
4) Use cleaning products, solvents, and fuels as directed in a well-ventilated area because the fumes may also be toxic
5) Be aware of potential sources of lead poisoning, such as old paints, vapors from working with lead-coated metals, alcohol distilled in recycled car radiators, and similar sources.