Kidney failure is the total loss of kidney function. There are two treatment options — dialysis and kidney transplant — or sometimes both, that can help you feel better and live a full life.
Signs You Should Get Help for Kidney Failure
If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, you have the highest risk for kidney failure. Contact your primary care doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Poor appetite
- Vomiting
- Weakness
After your exam, your doctor may refer you to a specialist in treating kidney disease.
Types of Kidney Failure Treatment at Rush
Our kidney failure specialists are leaders in the field. They'll help you find the best options to treat your kidney failure so you can return to leading a full, healthy life. We provide quick diagnosis and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.
There are two main treatments for kidney failure:
- Dialysis: Dialysis filters your blood to remove waste, salt and extra water, and it maintains a safe balance of chemicals in your blood and controls blood pressure. We understand the physical and emotional challenges you are facing, and we want to work with you until you feel comfortable with the changes.
- Kidney transplant: Our kidney transplants have the highest success and outcomes. The Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients confirms our kidney transplant survival rates for single organ transplants are the highest in the Chicago area at 98.2%.
Rush Excellence in Kidney Failure Care
- Excellent outcomes: Rush kidney transplant patients have excellent outcomes. The Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients confirms our kidney transplant survival rates for single organ transplants are the highest in the Chicago area at 98.2%.
- Leaders in kidney care: Our kidney program was ranked among the best in the U.S. for kidney disease by U.S. News & World Report.
- Leading-edge research: You will be treated by experts whose pioneering research in kidney disease for people with diabetes has led to changes in the American Diabetes Association recommendations regarding standards of care.
- Fast-track diagnosis: At Rush, you will be able to make an appointment for an evaluation within two weeks. If you qualify for a kidney transplant, you will be put on the active waiting list within 30 days. We are available 24 hours a day to respond to offers of organs for you.
- Care where — and when — you need it: Kidney failure and its treatment — whether you are undergoing dialysis, waiting for a transplant or undergoing a transplant — requires ongoing care. We offer care at a number of convenient locations in the area including Chicago and Oak Brook.
- Second opinion services: Rush offers second opinion services to help you explore all possible treatment options, including kidney transplants, for advanced kidney disease.