Kidney Failure

When kidney disease progresses to kidney failure, you deserve the compassionate care provided by kidney care specialist Deon Middlebrook, MD, in Detroit, Michigan. Dr. Middlebrook offers expert care throughout all the stages of kidney disease, including end-stage renal disease (kidney failure), dialysis and a kidney transplant if that’s an option for you. To get exceptional treatment and customized care, call the practice, Deon D. Middlebrook MDPC, or request an appointment online today.

What is kidney failure?

Kidney failure means your kidneys are too damaged to function. Healthy kidneys filter about one-half cup of blood every minute, removing toxic wastes, excess fluids, and extra electrolytes (potassium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium).

You could experience acute (sudden) kidney failure after suffering an injury or when another problem stops blood flow to the kidneys or blocks urine drainage.

However, most people develop kidney failure after years of chronic kidney disease. There are many possible reasons for kidney disease, but some of the most common include:

• Diabetes (the top cause)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure — the second-most common cause)
• Renal artery stenosis (blocked arteries)
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Glomerulonephritis
• Autoimmune disorders
• Toxins (heavy metals and drugs)
• Infections

Chronic kidney disease is progressive, causing ongoing damage to the tissues inside your kidneys. As a result, their ability to function slowly diminishes.

When does kidney failure begin?

You pass through five stages of kidney disease, defined by increasing kidney damage and decreasing function. In the first three stages, prompt and diligent treatment can stop kidney disease from advancing to the next stage.

At stage four, you have severe kidney damage, and by the time you reach stage five, your kidneys are working at less than 15% of their full capacity. At this stage, you’re in kidney failure, also called end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

What symptoms does kidney failure cause?

Kidney failure symptoms include:

• Urinating less often (in earlier stages you urinate more frequently)
• Foamy urine (multiple layers of bubbles that don’t disappear)
• Swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet (caused by excessive fluids)
• Itchy, dry skin
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Muscle aches or cramps
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty sleeping
• Metallic taste in your mouth

Leg swelling is one of the most common symptoms at every stage of kidney disease. Healthy kidneys seldom eliminate proteins. As a result, protein in your urine (proteinuria) is a sign of kidney disease.

How is kidney failure treated?

Dr. Middlebrook is a kidney care specialist who focuses on helping you stay healthy by treating every stage of kidney disease with advanced medical care and lifestyle recommendations.

 However, there are only two treatments for kidney failure: dialysis and a kidney transplant. Dr. Middlebrook manages your pre- and post-dialysis care, including creating and managing dialysis access.

Call Deon D. Middlebrook MDPC today or request an appointment online if you need compassionate care for any stage of kidney disease.