MY VASCULAR HEALTH
Renal Failure & Dialysis Access
Overview
The kidneys primary function is to filter the blood and remove waste products and fluids from the body. The kidney also helps regulate blood pressure by secreting a hormone called renin into the bloodstream which constricts the blood vessels in our body to increase blood pressure when needed.
The symptoms of renal failure are often subtle, which often results in delayed diagnosis and treatments.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Itchy skin
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Chest pain
- Yellow/Pale skin color
- Puffy hands and feet
- Confusion
- Back pain
- Decreased urine output/blood in urine
- Nausea/vomiting or fever
Causes:
There are many reasons for kidney failure, one of which include plaque buildup within the kidney arteries that results in diminished blood flow, and chronic renal failure. Plaque build-up in the renal arteries decreases the blood flow and pressure to the kidneys. This results in increased production and release of renin into the bloodstream, which causes uncontrolled hypertension. This phenomenon is known as renovascular hypertension which can result in kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, and death.