Kidney or electrolyte disorders occur when the kidneys do not function normally.
The kidneys, a pair of organs located on the left and right side of the abdomen, are an essential component of the urinary tract. The kidneys are responsible for removing toxins, chemicals, and waste products from the blood. These organs also regulate acid concentration and maintain water and electrolyte balance in the body by excreting urine.
Nephropathy is a term that is used to describe kidney damage. Many diseases and disorders may lead to nephropathy or even kidney failure.
Examples of kidney disorders include Fanconi syndrome, glomerulonephritis, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), kidney cancer, kidney stones, and nephrotoxicity. These disorders may develop for a wide variety of reasons. Some disorders may be caused by exposure to toxic chemicals or medications, while others may be inherited.
Treatment and prognosis varies depending on the type and severity of the kidney disorder. Most patients are able to recover completely if they are diagnosed and treated in the early stages of the disease. However, if left untreated, many disorders may lead to kidney failure, which is a fatal condition, unless the patient receives a kidney transplant.
Related Terms
Blood urea nitrogen test, BUN test, CAPD, CCPD, continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis, cyclosporine toxicity, dialysis, diuretic, diuresis, Fanconi-syndrome, hemodialysis, gentamicin toxicity, glomerulonephritis, glomerulosclerosis, heat exhaustion, hypercalcemia, hyperkalemia, hypophosphatemia, IgA nephropathy, kidney cancer, kidney disease, kidney disorders, kidney failure, kidney stones, renal calculi, lupus nephritis, nephritic syndrome, nephrotoxicity, renal colic, renal disease, renal failure, Type II nephritic syndrome, urinary calculi, urolithasis.
Natural Standard Monograph, Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. |
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