Georgia Nursing Home Kidney Failure Lawyers
When neglect leads to kidney damage, we demand justice for families
Kidney failure is a serious and life-threatening condition that can affect elderly nursing home residents. In some cases, it may result from nursing home abuse or neglect, such as untreated infections, medication errors, or dehydration. For seniors who may already be medically fragile, kidney failure can quickly lead to severe health complications or even death if not recognized and treated in time.
At Johnson Greer Law Group, our nursing home kidney failure lawyers help Georgia families hold facilities accountable when neglect contributes to damage. If your loved one suffered because of poor care, our legal team is here to help you get answers and pursue justice.
What is kidney failure?
Kidneys play a vital role in keeping the body healthy. They remove waste products, regulate fluids, and help control blood pressure. Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to perform these functions.
There are two main types:
- Acute Kidney Failure: A sudden loss of kidney function, often caused by infection, dehydration, or a medical emergency.
- Chronic Kidney Failure: A gradual decline in kidney function over time, often linked to underlying conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
For nursing home residents, both types are especially dangerous because their bodies may not be able to recover as quickly as younger, healthier individuals.
Kidney failure complications
When the kidneys stop working correctly, toxins and fluids build up in the body. This can cause serious complications, including:
- Fluid retention leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
- Dangerous levels of electrolytes, such as potassium, can affect the heart
- Weakened immune system and higher risk of infections
- Organ damage, including heart problems
- Confusion, drowsiness, or even coma
- Death, if left untreated
Kidney failure doesn’t just affect one part of the body, it impacts nearly every system, which is why early detection and treatment are critical.
How nursing home neglect can cause kidney failure
While kidney failure can result from natural health conditions, it is sometimes a preventable outcome of nursing home neglect. Common factors linked to poor care include:
- Untreated infections: Ignoring urinary tract infections or sepsis can overwhelm the kidneys and lead to failure.
- Medication errors: Incorrect dosages or harmful drug interactions can damage kidney function.
- Dehydration: Failing to provide enough fluids is a leading cause of kidney damage in nursing home residents.
- Unmanaged diabetes or high blood pressure: Residents with chronic conditions need consistent monitoring and treatment, which neglectful facilities may overlook.
- Poor nutrition: Lack of proper dietary care can place additional strain on already weakened kidneys.
Nursing homes have a duty to monitor residents’ health, administer medication correctly, and respond quickly to signs of decline. When they don’t, residents can suffer irreversible harm.
Warning signs of kidney failure
Families who visit loved ones in nursing homes should watch for symptoms that may point to kidney problems. Common warning signs include:
- Fatigue or unusual sleepiness
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes
- Changes in urination, either too much or too little
- Confusion, disorientation, or memory issues
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
These symptoms should never be dismissed as “normal aging.” They may be a red flag that the kidneys are not functioning properly and that immediate medical attention is needed.
Protecting your loved one’s health and rights
If your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect in a nursing home, you don’t have to face this alone. At Johnson Greer Law Group, we stand with families, investigating what went wrong, holding negligent facilities accountable, and fighting for the justice your loved one deserves.
We understand how difficult and emotional this process can be. Our nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way, providing compassionate legal guidance while protecting your loved one’s health and rights. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help your family fight back against neglect and secure the care and respect your loved one deserves.