Pneumonia's ripple effect: The surprising ties to acute kidney injury

Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can lead to hospitalization, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems and older adults. While the respiratory symptoms of pneumonia are well-known (including cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills and difficulty breathing), there can be a significant impact on other organs, especially the kidneys. During severe pneumonia, the body can face inflammation and stress, which can lead to acute kidney injury (AKI). 

In AKI, the kidneys suddenly decline in function and are unable to filter waste and balance fluids as well. People with pneumonia may have several risk factors for AKI like sepsis (life-threatening infection that spreads through the body) and low blood pressure. Even certain antibiotics can negatively affect kidney function. AKI should be treated to prevent any lasting kidney damage and could improve in a couple of days. Hospitalized patients with pneumonia who develop AKI can have higher risk of complications and longer recovery time. 

During times of illness, such as pneumonia, it is important to closely monitor kidney function and hydration status to manage both pneumonia and the impact on kidney function. Identifying kidney injury early can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term damage, such as chronic kidney disease, or kidney failure.

The treatment depends on severity as some individuals may need to be treated in the hospital. Patients may receive medicines for controlling blood pressure and electrolytes or treatments to remove additional fluids. If the AKI is severe and the kidneys stop working,  dialysis may be needed for a short period of time. Dialysis is a treatment that uses a machine to clean waste from the blood while the kidneys are recovering. 

Signs and symptoms of a severe AKI may include:

• Urinating (peeing) less often
• Swelling in your legs, ankles or feet
• Feeling weak and tired
• Feeling like you cannot catch your breath
• Feeling confused
• Feeling sick to your stomach 
• Feeling pain or pressure in your chest
• Seizures or coma (in severe cases of AKI)

Learn more about AKI on our website.