A condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood.

Renal failure, also called kidney failure, happens after a medical condition leads to kidney damage over time. Conditions that can cause this process include diabetes and high blood pressure.

With renal failure, symptoms can vary as kidney damage becomes worse. Symptoms may include vomiting, appetite loss, weakness, changes in urination, chest pain, shortness of breath, and swelling of feet and ankles.

Renal failure treatment is needed to stay alive. A treatment needed for life called dialysis can do some of the work that the kidneys can no longer do. Or transplant surgery can replace a damaged kidney with a healthy donated one.