Renal Failure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Renal Failure?
A nephrologist specializes in kidney diseases. A primary care doctor manages conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and a urologist may help if blockages play a role. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is renal failure?
Renal failure, also called kidney failure, means the kidneys have stopped working well enough to clean the blood. The kidneys filter waste and extra water out of the blood, and the body gets rid of them through urine. When the kidneys fail, waste builds up and a person can become very sick.
Your kidneys clean your blood, balance water and salt, and help control blood pressure. Renal failure happens when they lose most of this ability. Acute kidney injury comes on suddenly and may reverse; chronic kidney disease is usually permanent.
Symptoms
Early kidney disease often causes no symptoms. As function drops, symptoms may include swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes, tiredness, and less urine. Confusion, chest pressure, or shortness of breath need urgent care.
Causes and who gets it
Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two most common causes of chronic kidney disease, damaging the kidneys' tiny filters. Other causes include polycystic kidney disease and long-term use of certain pain medicines. Acute kidney injury can follow severe dehydration, serious infection, or certain medicines.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors start with blood and urine tests. A blood test measuring creatinine estimates how well the kidneys filter, and a urine test can show protein or blood. Ultrasound can show blockages.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and cause. For acute kidney injury, doctors treat its cause, and function often improves. For chronic kidney disease, the goal is slowing damage by controlling blood pressure and blood sugar. Advanced cases need dialysis or a kidney transplant.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for swelling in the legs or feet, much less urine, or blood in the urine. Get urgent care for confusion, chest pain, or trouble breathing. People with diabetes or high blood pressure need regular kidney checks.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance; a concierge doctor typically works alongside insurance. Either can manage early chronic kidney disease and refer to a nephrologist if needed.
Common questions
Can kidney failure be cured?
Acute kidney injury sometimes goes away completely when the cause is treated. Chronic kidney disease damage is usually permanent, but treatment can slow it down. How well a person does depends on the cause and how early it is found.
Is dialysis painful?
Most people do not describe dialysis as painful. Needle placement for hemodialysis, which uses a machine and a blood vessel, can be uncomfortable. Some people feel tired or have cramps during or after sessions.
Can you live with one kidney?
Yes, many people live healthy lives with one kidney. People who are born with one kidney or donate one usually have normal kidney function. They should have regular checkups to make sure the remaining kidney stays healthy.
What drinks or foods are bad for the kidneys?
Doctors often advise limiting salt. People with advanced kidney disease may need to limit foods high in potassium or phosphorus, which are minerals the kidneys normally remove. Sugary drinks can worsen diabetes risk, which harms the kidneys. A doctor or dietitian can give advice that fits each person.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Kidney Failure
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Chronic Kidney Disease Basics | Chronic Kidney Disease
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
