Kidney Damage

The location of the kidneys protects them from many external forces. They are located deep within the abdomen. Protected by the spine, lower rib cage and back muscles, this location keeps their large blood supply intact. Still, kidneys can be injured if there is damage to the blood vessels that supply or drain them. If you were to injure your kidneys, you could bleed severely. People with undiagnosed kidney conditions are more susceptible to injuries to the kidneys.

Each kidney filters about 1,700-2,000 liters of blood per day, outputting waste into about one liter of urine per day. This exposure to toxins each day makes them highly susceptible to injury from toxic substances. When waste products are allowed to build up within the kidneys, toxic kidney damage can occur. Medical procedures such as surgeries and certain medications can also do damage.

Symptoms of acute kidney damage should be treated as an emergency. They may include severe pain in the flanks, back pain, fever, abdominal swelling, blood in the urine, drowsiness, coma, increased heart rate, pale skin and sweating. A decreased output of urine or inability to urinate is also a symptom. Symptoms of chronic kidney damage include irritability and weight loss, and constipation occurs with toxic injury such as lead poisoning.

To prevent kidney damage, it is necessary that you stay on top of your health. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid becoming dehydrated. Keep your blood pressure at an acceptable level and if you have diabetes, manage it well. Finally, see your health care practitioner if you have any of the above symptoms in order to get a proper diagnosis.