What are the common causes of kidney failure?

Kidney or renal failure is a medical condition in which the kidneys can no longer filter waste from blood to keep the balance of body fluids and electrolytes. This condition can either occur suddenly (acute kidney failure) or develop gradually over time (chronic kidney failure). Identifying a few common causes of kidney failure is essential to understanding kidney treatment in Ayurveda, which works with herbs and lifestyle changes to enhance kidney function in patients' lives. Now, let’s go over the detailed causes of kidney failure.

• Diabetes: One of the worst causes of kidney failure is diabetes, which brings so many other health issues, too. High blood sugar levels over extended periods can destroy small blood vessels (glomeruli) in the kidneys,  making them less able to filter waste. This condition is called diabetic nephropathy, which slowly progresses and has chronic kidney failure as a long-term consequence.
• High BP (Hypertension): Besides diabetes, another leading cause of kidney failure is chronic hypertension. In high blood pressure, the force puts pressure on the arteries and narrows, weakens, and hardens the blood vessels around the kidneys. This restricts the flow of blood and hampers the ability of the kidneys to filter. Unfettered,  over time, high blood pressure can cause permanent kidney damage.
• Chronic Kidney Disease: Over time, conditions such as diabetes or hypertension can damage the kidneys, leading to CKD, which can progress to kidney failure. When the inflammation strikes the glomeruli, they fail to perform their functions, allowing waste products to build up in the body. In more severe cases, it can cause kidney failure.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):  Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited condition that leads to the development of fluid-filled sacs in the kidneys. Cysts can also affect other organs. These cysts can increase in size and decrease kidney function, which can eventually lead to kidney failure.
• Kidney Infections and Obstructions in the Urinary Tract: Recurrent kidney infections (called pyelonephritis) and urinary tract obstructions (caused by either kidney stones or an enlarged prostate) increase the risk of scarring and inflammation in the kidney. If not addressed, these medical conditions can result in kidney failure.
• Use of Specific Medications and Toxins: Long-term use of particular medicines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can lead to kidney damage. In addition, exposure to heavy metals, illicit drugs and some over-the-counter supplements can cause kidney damage.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are autoimmune diseases that can also damage the kidneys. Autoimmune diseases can be controlled and kidney failure prevented with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
• Severe Dehydration and Blood Loss: In cases of severe dehydration and blood loss, blood flow to the kidneys drastically reduces. Normal functioning of the kidneys is not possible without adequate blood supply, so renal failure occurs.
• Congenital kidney disorders: Congenital renal diseases can also be a reason for kidney failure. Such conditions include vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), which can cause recurrent infections and long-term damage.
• Obesity: Although obesity alone does not directly cause kidney failure, it can sow the seeds of kidney failure.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Kidney Disease

With ties to diabetes, high blood pressure, and some lifestyle choices, kidney disease is one of the fastest-growing health concerns. Ayurvedic treatment for kidney disease includes the ancient Indian system that uses herbs, diet, and lifestyle modifications (the natural techniques) to stay healthy.

Herbs for Kidney Health

Ayurveda suggests strong herbs to help kidney function and detoxification:

• Punarnava – Helps in reducing swelling and fluid retention.
• Gokshura – Supports urinary tract health and assuages discomfort
• Varun – Breaks down kidney stones, supporting a healthy renal system
• Palash - Palash acts as a powerful natural diuretic that helps in flushing out toxins from the body through urine.

Dietary Guidelines

Sticking to a kidney-friendly diet is still important:

• Eat light, easily digestible foods like vegetables, fruit, and whole grains.
• In addition to protein diets, processed foods and excess salt should be avoided.

Lifestyle Modifications

Here are some of the intelligent methods that can improve your renal health:

• Do yoga and meditation for stress relief.
• Keep your body hydrated, but do not drink too much water if your physician has recommended so.
• Follow a regular daily routine with adequate rest and sleep.

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to kidney health that is gentle yet potent. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or a medical institution like Karma Ayurveda Hospital before starting any treatment to ensure it is suitable for your personal needs.

Prevention and Early Detection

Other causes of kidney failure are unavoidable – for instance, genetic disorders – but many are avoidable and/or manageable with proactive steps such as:

• Controlling blood Sugar Levels
• Monitor Blood Pressure
• Stay Hydrated
• Adopt a Healthy Diet
• Do not smoke or overuse alcohol.
• Exercise Regularly
• Avoid Overuse of Medications
• Get Regular Checkups

Conclusion

There are several possible causes of kidney failure, and pinpointing the specific cause will help get the issue to its roots and fix it. Knowledge of these causes, paired with preventive measures, can help you ward off kidney failure. Yet, changing your lifestyle and dealing with its causes immediately will help you get rid of the symptoms. You can also check out Karma Ayurveda for potent herbal treatment for kidney disorders.