What things cause kidney damage?

Many possible causes: Medical conditions such as diabetes, long-standing hypertension, glomerulonephritis--i.e. inflammation of the filtering units of the kidneys often leads to kidney damage. Certain medications (e.g. anti-inflammatory meds, certain antibiotics (aminoglycosides), certain chemicals, prolonged obstruction of urine flow and prolonged dehydration or poor blood flow can cause kidney damage as well.