Causes of Acute Kidney Failure
Acute kidney failure causes may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Myocardial infarction - a heart attack may lead to temporary kidney failure.
- Rhabdomyolysis - kidney damage that can occur from muscle breakdown. This condition can occur from severe dehydration, infection, or other causes.
- Decreased blood flow to the kidneys for a period of time. This may occur from blood loss or shock.
- An obstruction or blockage along the urinary tract.
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome - usually caused by an E. coli infection, kidney failure develops as a result of obstruction to the small functional structures and vessels inside the kidney.
- Ingestion of certain medications that may cause toxicity to the kidneys.
- Glomerulonephritis - a type of kidney disease that involves glomeruli. During glomerulonephritis, the glomeruli become inflamed and impair the kidney's ability to filter urine. Glomerulonephritis may lead to chronic kidney failure in some individuals.
- Any condition that may impair the flow of oxygen and blood to the kidneys such as cardiac arrest.