Overview
AKI can come from dehydration, low blood pressure, infection, some medicines, or a blocked urinary tract.
It's common in hospitals and in older adults who are sick.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Peeing much less
- Peeing much less than usual
Less common
- Swelling
- Tiredness
- Nausea
- Confusion
Look up a symptom: Fatigue · Nausea · New confusion or not acting like themselves
When to get medical care
Call 911Confusion, chest pain, or no urine.
Get care todayMuch less urine.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.
Causes
Dehydration, medicines.
Who is more likely to get it
- Older adults
Possible complications
- Chronic kidney disease: Some never fully recover
- Hyperkalemia (high potassium in the blood): Can be dangerous for the heart
Diagnosis
Blood and urine tests.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Creatinine:
Treatment
Hospital care.
Self-care
- Avoid NSAIDs
- Drink fluids when sick
- Avoid NSAIDs if you have kidney disease
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Stay hydrated
- Stay hydrated
- Ask before taking NSAIDs
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to a nephrologist (kidney doctor).
Living with it
Support groups and helplines
- National Kidney Foundation: Help line, peer mentors, and education about kidney health.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people can go to school or work. Keep the wound clean and covered.
- Avoid pools and hot tubs until the skin heals.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Older adults: Higher risk.
Outlook
Often recovers.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- Will my kidneys recover?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Sudden kidney problem (acute kidney injury)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.