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Acute kidney failure occurs when your kidneys suddenly become unable to filter waste products from your blood. When your kidneys lose their filtering ability, dangerous levels of wastes may accumulate, and your blood’s chemical makeup may get out of balance. Acute kidney failure — also called acute renal failure or acute kidney injury — develops rapidly, usually in less than a few days. Acute kidney failure is most common in people who are already hospitalized, particularly in critically ill people who need intensive care. Acute kidney failure can be fatal and requires intensive treatment. However, acute kidney failure may be reversible. If you’re otherwise in good health, you may recover normal or nearly normal kidney function. Symptoms Signs and symptoms of acute kidney failure may include: Decreased urine output, although occasionally urine output remains normal Fluid retention, causing swelling in your legs, ankles or feet Shortness of breath Fatigue Confusion Nausea Weakness Irregular heartbeat Chest pain or pressure Seizures or coma in severe cases