Chronic vs. Acute Kidney Failure: Key Differences
- Chonnikan M.
- Oct 25, 2025
- 4 min read
Kidney failure — just hearing the name can sound frightening, right?That’s because it’s a condition in which the kidneys can no longer function normally, leading to an improper removal of waste and excess fluids from the body. This imbalance can cause several complications such as high blood pressure, swelling, and anemia. Without proper care and treatment, kidney failure can progress into a severe chronic condition or occur suddenly as an acute, life-threatening episode.
Understanding the difference between Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is crucial, as their causes, treatments, and management approaches differ significantly.This article will help you learn more about both types of kidney failure and guide you on how to properly care for patients affected by these conditions.
What is Kidney Failure?
Kidney failure refers to a condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to effectively filter waste products and maintain the proper balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body.
Common symptoms of kidney failure may include swelling around the eyes, arms, legs, or abdomen. In some cases, patients may also experience fatigue, weakness, or nausea.
There are two main types of kidney failure
Chronic Kidney Disease – CKD
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition in which the kidneys gradually and continuously lose their ability to function over a period of months or years. Most patients are often unaware of the problem until kidney function has significantly declined.
Chronic kidney disease is classified into five stages based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), ranging from the initial stage with no obvious symptoms to the final stage, where dialysis or kidney transplantation becomes necessary.
Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Diabetes Mellitus is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease in both Thai people and worldwide. Persistently high blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste. If blood sugar levels are not properly controlled over time, kidney function gradually deteriorates, eventually leading to kidney failure.
Hypertension – Long-term high blood pressure can harden and narrow the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing blood flow. This forces the kidneys to work harder, leading to faster deterioration and an increased risk of chronic kidney disease if not properly controlled.
Chronic Glomerulonephritis – This condition is caused by inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units (glomeruli), which may result from abnormal immune responses or certain infections. Repeated inflammation gradually damages the kidney tissue, reducing its ability to filter waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
Genetic or Structural Disorders – Some individuals may have inherited conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease, or congenital structural abnormalities of the kidneys. These conditions reduce kidney function from a young age and gradually lead to chronic kidney disease.
Treatment and Care for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Patients
Care for Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Management of chronic kidney disease focuses on controlling underlying conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and attending routine health check-ups.
For patients with advanced kidney failure, dialysis is necessary to remove waste and excess fluid. At Pattaya Dialysis Clinic, we provide dialysis with high safety standards, under the close supervision of experienced doctors and nurses. If you require dialysis or are looking for a certified dialysis center in Pattaya, you can consult with us here. Click now to learn more.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Frequent urination at night
Swelling in the hands, legs, or around the eyes
High blood pressure
Fatigue and tiredness
2.Acute Kidney Injury – AKI
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a condition in which kidney function rapidly declines over a few hours to a few days. It can be caused by dehydration, infections, or side effects of medications.
Causes of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Reduced blood flow or shock
Severe infections
Medications or toxins that affect the kidneys
Urinary tract obstruction, such as kidney stones
Symptoms of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Decreased urine output or no urination
Swelling in the body
Nausea and vomiting
High or abnormal blood pressure
Treatment and Care for Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Patients
Care for Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Patients
Management of acute kidney injury requires urgent treatment to restore kidney function and prevent potential complications. Doctors first identify the cause, such as dehydration, infection, or medications affecting the kidneys, and then provide appropriate treatment, including intravenous fluids, adjusting current medications, or treating any infections.
In cases where the kidneys temporarily stop functioning, patients may require temporary dialysis to remove waste and maintain electrolyte balance until kidney function recovers.
Summary
Understanding the differences between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute kidney injury (AKI) helps in recognizing symptoms early and choosing appropriate care. CKD usually develops slowly and may require dialysis or kidney transplantation in its final stage, while AKI occurs rapidly and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
If you or someone close to you shows signs of kidney disease, do not hesitate to consult a specialist. You can also consult with Pattaya Dialysis, where we provide dialysis services for chronic kidney disease patients. Our hemodialysis machines meet the standards of the Kidney Association of Thailand, in a clean, comfortable, and convenient environment that feels like home. Patients are closely cared for by our team of experienced doctors and nurses, ensuring a relaxing experience with professional, internationally recognized care.
***Information courtesy of BANGKOK HOSPITAL Chanthaburi.
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