Renal failure, also known as kidney failure, signifies a condition where the kidneys cease to function effectively, no longer able to sustain life without the assistance of dialysis or a kidney transplant. The term “renal” pertains to the kidneys, and you may encounter both terms used interchangeably. In essence, kidney failure and renal failure convey the same meaning: kidney function has deteriorated to a level below 10% to 15%, necessitating renal replacement therapy to ensure survival.
In cases where kidney failure occurs suddenly due to factors like adverse reactions to medications, accidents, or other abrupt causes, it is referred to as acute kidney failure. Sometimes, in instances of acute renal failure, kidney function may recover following a period of dialysis. However, if the kidneys sustain permanent damage, dialysis or a transplant becomes imperative to restore kidney function.
