End stage renal failure can occur secondary to several different types of medical conditions and often results in the need for long-term dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant. Although dialysis used to be fairly uncommon, it has rapidly become a widespread medical procedure in the US because of the rise in the prevalence of chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. A basic understanding of the most common reasons for needing dialysis is an important part in becoming a proactive patient and helps to ensure that individuals experience the most positive health outcomes possible.

Although the majority of new kidney failure cases result from chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, there are a few important acute conditions that can cause the physician to recommend dialysis therapy. Many medical professionals use the mnemonic AEIOU to remember the signs that a renal evaluation might be needed. These letters stand for acidemia, electrolyte imbalance, intoxication, overload, and uremia. Each of these conditions results from the inability of the kidneys to remove excess water and waste from the body. As byproducts of metabolism continuously accumulate in the body, the individual begins to experience symptoms that can include swelling of the face, hands, and feet; dry and itchy skin; mental status changes; changes in urine production; and much more. A licensed healthcare professional will typically send the patient for a renal evaluation where the function of the kidneys will be assessed and a recommendation for treatment will be made by a physician.

Intoxication is a particularly noteworthy indication for dialysis because it demonstrates the caution that should be exercised when handling certain types of chemicals. In order to recall the five most common chemicals that can result in renal failure, many medical personnel use the mnemonic SLIME. These letters stand for salicylic acid, lithium, isopropanol, magnesium-containing laxatives, and ethylene glycol. While there are other compounds that can damage the kidneys, individuals should take special care to make sure these five substances are placed in a secure location away from the reach of children. The accidental ingestion of these chemicals can cause serious health problems and may lead to long-term dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant.

While it is important to have an appreciation for the acute indications for dialysis therapy, the majority of people who suffer from renal failure have developed the complication secondary to the effects of chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. These diseases are generally progressive in nature and result in the slow and steady decline in filtration capacity. In most cases, a physician will begin monitoring individuals for kidney damage once the patient has been identified as someone who is at high risk. One of the most common metrics that is used to evaluate and monitor the health of the kidneys is known as glomerular filtration rate (GFR). An individuals GFR shows how well they are able to clean the blood and it will decrease in cases where kidney damage is occurring. Once the GFR has fallen below 15% of normal capacity, the patient is said to have end stage renal failure and is in need of long-term dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant.

Chronic kidney disease and end stage renal failure are difficult illnesses to manage. Individuals who take the time to understand the indications for dialysis treatment are far more likely to experience positive health outcomes and are in a better position to remain compliant with the challenges of long-term treatment. In addition, the information gained from learning about the disease and treatment process can be used to inform others about what they can do to decrease the likelihood of needing therapy in the future.