The kidneys provide several functions necessary to maintain homeostasis in the body. The complex of symptoms associated with advanced, or end-stage kidney disease is the same regardless of the cause, which is often secondary in importance to the results of kidney failure. Early manifestations, such as a gradual increase in urinary output, may be so slight as to go unnoticed, and are not associated with significant impairment of daily function. Additionally, loss of major kidney functions requires an individual to use a dialysis machine to function as an artificial kidney, further limiting independence and adaptability in the affected person. The American Heart Association has created a five stage performance classification scheme to categorize the functional limitations associated with renal disease.
Inadequate dialysis can result in impairment of attention and problem-solving.
Individuals may survive ten years or longer after kidney failure with proper dialysis and other treatment.