Uremia
Uremia is a condition that occurs when the kidneys cannot function properly. When this happens, waste products and excess fluid build up in the body. One of the waste products that can accumulate is urea, produced when protein is broken down.
Urea is broken down into ammonia which is then converted into carbon dioxide and water through respiration. This process occurs without any problems in healthy individuals, but in people with renal failure, this process isn’t as efficient due to damaged kidney cells.
As a result, ammonia accumulates in the blood, which leads to metabolic acidosis. Other factors contributing to metabolic acidosis in people with uremia include high phosphate levels and low blood-bicarbonate levels.
Aside from urea, other waste products that can accumulate in the body include creatinine, phosphate, and potassium. Uremia can also cause an electrolyte imbalance and dehydration. If left untreated, uremia can lead to coma and death. If the underlying cause of uremia can be treated, then the uremia may resolve on its own without any further treatment is necessary.