All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Acute renal failure - Symptoms
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
A thorough anamnesis is required, specifying information about recent acute illnesses, the presence of chronic illnesses, medication intake, contact with toxic substances and clinical symptoms of intoxication.
Typical symptoms of acute renal failure: dry mouth, thirst, shortness of breath (extracellular hyperhydration develops, the first sign of which is interstitial pulmonary edema), swelling of soft tissues in the lumbar region, swelling of the lower extremities (fluid accumulation in cavities is also possible: hydrothorax, ascites, the development of cerebral edema and seizures is possible).
Clinical symptoms of acute renal failure are as follows:
- Absence or decrease in the amount of urine and the appearance of edema.
- Symptoms of intoxication:
- lack of appetite, in particular the desire to eat foods containing protein;
- poor sleep;
- weakness, headaches;
- nausea, vomiting, bloating, and sometimes diarrhea.
Physical examination reveals renal tenderness upon palpation, peripheral edema, and pale skin. Patients have a tendency to arterial hypertension due to fluid retention in the body, and bradycardia is sometimes observed. In patients with underlying hypertension, arterial hypertension may become malignant, leading to the development of recurrent acute left ventricular heart failure, often determining an unfavorable prognosis. The patient's physical activity is reduced to complete lethargy and lack of adaptation to the environment. Clinical symptoms of acute renal failure associated with uremic intoxication are characteristic: encephalopathy, gastritis, enterocolitis or gastroenterocolitis.
[