Acute Renal Failure: Sudden Loss of Kidney Function

6. Complications

Acute kidney failure has a few possible complications. Among the most common is edema, also known as fluid buildup. This can cause shortness of breath. Some people experience chest pain because the lining that covers the heart becomes inflamed. Muscle weakness can also occur when kidney failure affects the body’s balance of fluids and electrolytes. Acute renal failure can cause permanent kidney damage, which may require permanent dialysis or a transplant. These complications, as well as the condition itself, are sometimes fatal.