Your kidneys play an essential role in keeping your body healthy. They filter waste products and excess fluid from your blood, help regulate blood pressure, balance minerals, and support other important body functions.
However, kidney problems can develop gradually without causing noticeable symptoms at first. One condition that can affect kidney function over time is chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Chronic kidney disease may become more serious if it is not identified and managed appropriately. The good news is that early detection, regular monitoring, and suitable treatment can help protect kidney function and reduce the risk of complications.
In this article, you will learn about chronic kidney disease, its early warning signs, common symptoms, causes, stages, diagnosis, and available treatments.
Important: Early-stage kidney disease often causes no symptoms. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney failure, ask your healthcare professional whether you need regular kidney function tests.
What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition in which the kidneys are damaged or do not function as well as they should.
Healthy kidneys filter waste products and excess water from the blood, helping remove them through urine. When kidney function decreases, waste products and fluid may build up in the body.
CKD is generally defined by abnormalities in kidney structure or function that persist for at least three months and have implications for health.
The condition can develop slowly over time. Some people have mild kidney damage and remain stable for years, while others experience a gradual decline in kidney function.
The effects depend on the underlying cause, the severity of the condition, and how well associated health problems are managed.
Although chronic kidney disease cannot always be reversed, appropriate treatment may slow its progression and help people maintain a good quality of life.
What Do Your Kidneys Do?
Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located toward the back of your abdomen, one on each side of the spine. Each kidney contains millions of tiny filtering structures that help clean the blood.
Their functions extend beyond urine production.
1. Remove Waste Products
Your body produces waste during normal metabolic processes. Healthy kidneys filter many of these substances from the blood and remove them through urine.
When kidney function declines, certain waste products may accumulate.
2. Balance Fluid Levels
The kidneys help regulate how much water remains in the body and how much is removed through urine.
When kidney function becomes significantly impaired, excess fluid may accumulate and contribute to swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or other areas.
3. Help Control Blood Pressure
The kidneys help regulate blood pressure by controlling fluid balance and releasing hormones involved in blood pressure regulation.
Kidney disease and high blood pressure can influence each other. High blood pressure may damage the kidneys, while impaired kidney function can make blood pressure more difficult to control.
4. Maintain Mineral and Electrolyte Balance
The kidneys help maintain appropriate levels of minerals and electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.
When kidney function is reduced, these levels may become abnormal, depending on the stage of disease and other medical factors.
5. Support Red Blood Cell Production
The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which signals the bone marrow to make red blood cells.
Advanced kidney disease can reduce this hormone's production and contribute to anemia, a condition that may cause fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath.
6. Support Bone Health
The kidneys help regulate vitamin D activation and the balance of minerals involved in maintaining healthy bones.
In more advanced kidney disease, disturbances in these processes may contribute to bone and mineral disorders.
What Are the Early Signs of Chronic Kidney Disease?
One of the most important things to understand about CKD is that early kidney disease often has no obvious warning signs.
A person may feel completely well even when kidney function has begun to decline. This is because the kidneys can continue performing many of their functions despite some degree of damage.
For this reason, symptoms alone cannot reliably determine whether your kidneys are healthy.
When symptoms do develop, they may include changes such as:
Persistent tiredness or unusual weakness.
Swelling around the ankles, feet, or hands.
Changes in urination frequency.
Foamy urine that may indicate protein in the urine.
Blood in the urine.
Reduced appetite or nausea.
Persistent itching.
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
These symptoms can have many causes, and experiencing one does not automatically mean you have kidney disease.
If symptoms persist or concern you, arrange a medical assessment. A healthcare professional can determine whether kidney function testing is appropriate.
People at increased risk may need blood and urine tests even when they have no symptoms.
What Does Urine Look Like When You Have Kidney Disease?
Changes in urine can sometimes provide clues about kidney or urinary tract problems. However, urine appearance alone cannot diagnose chronic kidney disease.
Foamy Urine
Occasional foam can occur for harmless reasons, such as a forceful urine stream. However, persistent foamy urine may sometimes indicate excess protein in the urine.
Healthy kidneys usually prevent significant amounts of protein from passing into urine. Damage to the kidney's filtering structures can allow protein to leak through.
A urine test can help determine whether protein is present.
Blood in the Urine
Blood in the urine may make it appear pink, red, or brown. It can occur with kidney disease, but it may also result from kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and other conditions.
Visible blood in the urine should be assessed by a healthcare professional, even if it happens only once.
Changes in Urination Frequency
Some people with kidney disease notice that they urinate more frequently, particularly at night. Others may experience reduced urine output in more advanced disease.
These changes are not specific to kidney disease. Diabetes, prostate problems, medications, urinary tract conditions, and other factors can also affect urination.
If you notice persistent changes, discuss them with your healthcare professional rather than trying to diagnose the cause yourself.
What Are the Symptoms of Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease?
As kidney function declines, waste products and excess fluid may build up, and other body functions may be affected.
Possible symptoms of more advanced CKD include:
1. Persistent Fatigue
Reduced kidney function can contribute to anemia and other changes that cause tiredness or weakness.
Fatigue may interfere with work, exercise, and everyday activities. However, it is a common symptom of many conditions and does not necessarily indicate kidney disease.
2. Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet
When the kidneys cannot remove excess fluid effectively, fluid may accumulate in body tissues.
Swelling can also occur when damaged kidneys allow too much protein to escape into the urine.
New or persistent swelling should be evaluated, especially if it occurs alongside other symptoms.
3. Nausea and Reduced Appetite
As kidney disease advances, the buildup of waste products may contribute to nausea, changes in appetite, or vomiting.
Persistent vomiting, difficulty keeping fluids down, or worsening symptoms require medical attention.
4. Itchy or Dry Skin
Some people with advanced kidney disease experience persistent itching or dry skin. Changes in mineral balance and the buildup of certain substances may contribute.
However, itching has many possible causes, including dry skin, allergies, and other medical conditions. Itching alone cannot establish a diagnosis of kidney disease.
5. Changes in Sleep and Concentration
Kidney disease may be associated with sleep difficulties, muscle cramps, or trouble concentrating.
These symptoms may arise from several causes and should be assessed in the context of a person's overall health.
6. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can occur when excess fluid builds up in the body, including around the lungs, or when anemia develops.
Seek emergency medical help for severe or sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or other serious symptoms. Do not assume these symptoms are caused by kidney disease without medical assessment.
When Should You See a Doctor About Kidney Health?
Consider arranging a medical appointment if you have persistent changes in urination, blood in your urine, unexplained swelling, ongoing fatigue, or other symptoms that concern you.
You should also discuss kidney screening if you have:
Diabetes.
High blood pressure.
Heart disease.
A family history of kidney failure or inherited kidney disease.
A history of acute kidney injury.
Another medical condition known to affect kidney function.
A clinician may recommend a blood test to estimate how well your kidneys filter blood and a urine test to check for albumin, a type of protein that can appear in urine when the kidneys are damaged.
These tests can identify kidney problems before noticeable symptoms develop.
Do not wait for symptoms if your healthcare professional has recommended regular kidney monitoring.
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What Causes Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic kidney disease can develop when a medical condition damages the kidneys or gradually reduces their ability to filter blood.
The damage may occur over many years, and the underlying cause can influence how quickly the disease progresses.
1. Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease.
When blood glucose levels remain high over time, the small blood vessels and filtering structures inside the kidneys can become damaged. This may allow protein to leak into the urine and gradually reduce kidney function.
People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes may be at risk, particularly when blood glucose, blood pressure, or other associated conditions are not well controlled.
Regular kidney screening can help detect early changes before symptoms appear.
2. High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels inside the kidneys, making it harder for them to filter blood effectively.
Kidney disease can also contribute to high blood pressure by affecting fluid balance and other regulatory processes. This can create a cycle in which each condition makes the other more difficult to manage.
Monitoring blood pressure and following an appropriate treatment plan are important for protecting kidney health.
3. Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis refers to a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the kidney's filtering units, known as glomeruli.
Depending on the underlying cause, this inflammation may be associated with blood or protein in the urine, swelling, and reduced kidney function.
Some forms develop after infections, while others are associated with immune system disorders or other medical conditions.
4. Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited condition in which fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys.
Over time, these cysts may enlarge and damage healthy kidney tissue. The condition can run in families, although the age at which symptoms develop and the rate of progression vary.
People with a family history of inherited kidney disease should discuss their individual risk with a healthcare professional.
5. Repeated Kidney Problems or Urinary Tract Obstruction
Certain long-term or recurrent kidney problems may contribute to chronic kidney damage.
Examples include repeated kidney infections in some circumstances, conditions that obstruct the flow of urine, and structural abnormalities affecting the urinary tract.
Kidney stones can also cause complications, particularly when they lead to persistent obstruction or repeated problems.
Prompt assessment of urinary symptoms and appropriate treatment of underlying conditions can help reduce the risk of complications.
6. Autoimmune and Other Medical Conditions
Some autoimmune diseases, including lupus, can affect the kidneys and cause inflammation or damage.
Other conditions, inherited disorders, and certain medications or toxic exposures may also contribute to kidney injury.
The specific cause is not always immediately apparent. Doctors may recommend additional tests to determine the reason for reduced kidney function.
Who Is at Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease?
Anyone can develop chronic kidney disease, but certain factors increase the likelihood of kidney damage.
Diabetes and High Blood Pressure
These are two major risk factors. People with either condition may benefit from regular kidney function monitoring, even when they feel healthy.
Heart Disease
Heart and kidney health are closely connected. Cardiovascular disease and conditions that affect circulation may increase the risk of kidney problems.
Family History
A close relative with kidney failure or an inherited kidney disorder may indicate an increased risk, depending on the underlying condition.
Older Age
Kidney function can change with age, and older adults are more likely to have conditions that increase the risk of CKD. However, kidney disease is not an inevitable part of aging.
Previous Acute Kidney Injury
An episode of acute kidney injury can increase the risk of future kidney problems, particularly if recovery is incomplete or further injuries occur.
Smoking and Excess Body Weight
Smoking and excess body weight can contribute to conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which are associated with kidney damage.
Long-Term Use of Certain Medicines
Some medications can damage the kidneys, especially when used inappropriately or in people who already have kidney problems.
For example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen and naproxen, may affect kidney function in certain circumstances.
Do not stop a prescribed medication on your own. Ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist whether your medicines are appropriate for your kidney health, particularly if you have CKD or are at increased risk.
Having one or more risk factors does not mean you definitely have kidney disease. Testing is needed to assess kidney function.
What Are the Five Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease?
Healthcare professionals commonly classify chronic kidney disease into stages based partly on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a measure of how effectively the kidneys filter blood.
The five GFR categories range from G1 to G5. However, G1 and G2 indicate CKD only when there is other evidence of kidney damage, such as persistent albumin in the urine or structural abnormalities.
| Stage | eGFR (mL/min/1.73 m²) | General meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 (G1) | 90 or higher | Normal or high filtration, with other evidence of kidney damage |
| Stage 2 (G2) | 60–89 | Mildly reduced filtration, with other evidence of kidney damage |
| Stage 3a (G3a) | 45–59 | Mild to moderately reduced filtration |
| Stage 3b (G3b) | 30–44 | Moderately to severely reduced filtration |
| Stage 4 (G4) | 15–29 | Severely reduced filtration |
| Stage 5 (G5) | Below 15 | Kidney failure range |
Although people often refer to five stages, Stage 3 is divided into two categories, G3a and G3b.
Important: A single eGFR result does not always establish chronic kidney disease. Doctors consider whether abnormalities persist for at least three months, check urine albumin, and assess other clinical findings.
The stage alone also does not determine exactly how quickly the disease will progress or whether someone will need dialysis.
What Is an eGFR Test?
An estimated glomerular filtration rate, or eGFR, is a calculation used to estimate how effectively the kidneys filter waste from the blood.
It is generally calculated using a blood creatinine measurement along with factors included in the laboratory's validated equation.
Creatinine is a waste product produced by normal muscle activity. When kidney filtration declines, creatinine levels in the blood may increase.
Doctors use eGFR results to help identify reduced kidney function, classify CKD, and monitor changes over time.
However, creatinine levels can also be influenced by muscle mass, diet, certain medications, and other factors. The result should therefore be interpreted alongside the person's medical history and other test findings.
What Tests Diagnose Chronic Kidney Disease?
Doctors usually use blood tests, urine tests, medical history, and sometimes imaging to determine whether chronic kidney disease is present.
1. Blood Creatinine and eGFR
A blood test measures creatinine, which is used to calculate eGFR.
A persistently reduced eGFR may indicate impaired kidney function. Repeat testing may be needed to establish whether the problem is chronic rather than temporary.
2. Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (uACR)
This urine test measures the amount of albumin, a protein, relative to creatinine in the urine.
Healthy kidneys usually retain most albumin in the bloodstream. Increased urine albumin can indicate damage to the kidney's filtering structures.
A uACR result of 30 mg/g or higher may indicate increased albumin in the urine. Because results can vary, clinicians may repeat the test to confirm whether the finding persists.
3. Urinalysis
A urinalysis can check for blood, protein, and other abnormalities in the urine.
Depending on the findings, additional testing may be needed to identify possible kidney disease, infection, or another urinary tract condition.
4. Blood Pressure Measurement
Blood pressure measurement helps identify an important risk factor for kidney damage. It also helps doctors assess how well treatment is working.
5. Kidney Ultrasound or Other Imaging
An ultrasound may be used to examine the size and structure of the kidneys and look for cysts, obstruction, or other abnormalities.
Not everyone with CKD needs imaging. Doctors recommend it when the medical history or test results suggest it may be useful.
6. Additional Blood Tests
Depending on the stage and suspected cause, doctors may check electrolytes, bicarbonate, blood counts, calcium, phosphorus, and other markers.
These tests can help identify complications and guide treatment.
7. Kidney Biopsy
In selected cases, a kidney biopsy may be recommended to identify the type of kidney damage and help guide treatment.
It is not routinely necessary for every person with CKD. The decision depends on the suspected cause, potential benefits, and risks.
Can Chronic Kidney Disease Be Reversed?
Whether kidney damage can improve depends on the underlying cause and the type of kidney injury.
Some temporary kidney problems can improve when the cause is treated. However, chronic kidney disease involves abnormalities that persist over time, and established kidney scarring is often not reversible.
Even when CKD cannot be reversed, treatment may help slow its progression, manage complications, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Early diagnosis gives healthcare professionals an opportunity to address contributing conditions and develop an appropriate long-term management plan.
If you have abnormal kidney test results, ask your clinician what they mean, whether repeat testing is needed, and what steps can help protect your kidney function.
How Is Chronic Kidney Disease Treated?
Treatment for chronic kidney disease depends on its cause, stage, symptoms, and the person's overall health.
Although established kidney damage cannot always be reversed, appropriate treatment can help slow the progression of the disease, manage complications, and reduce the risk of other health problems.
1. Control Blood Pressure
Managing blood pressure is one of the most important steps in protecting kidney function.
Your healthcare professional may recommend lifestyle changes and prescribe medication to help keep your blood pressure within an appropriate range.
Certain medicines, including ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), may help protect kidney function in selected patients, particularly those with albumin in their urine.
These medicines are not suitable for everyone and may require monitoring of kidney function and potassium levels.
2. Manage Diabetes
For people with diabetes, managing blood glucose can help reduce the risk of kidney damage and other complications.
A treatment plan may include regular blood glucose monitoring, appropriate medication, a balanced eating pattern, and physical activity.
Some people with type 2 diabetes and CKD may benefit from medicines such as SGLT2 inhibitors, which can help protect kidney and cardiovascular health in appropriate patients.
The best treatment depends on individual circumstances. Do not start, stop, or change diabetes medication without professional guidance.
3. Manage Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Risk
People with CKD have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Depending on age, medical history, and overall risk, a healthcare professional may recommend cholesterol-lowering medication, such as a statin, alongside lifestyle changes.
Managing blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and other cardiovascular risk factors is also important.
4. Review Medications Regularly
Some medicines need dose adjustments when kidney function is reduced. Others may increase the risk of kidney injury in certain circumstances.
Tell your healthcare professional and pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements you use.
Avoid taking medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen regularly without checking whether they are safe for you, especially if you have CKD, dehydration, or other risk factors.
Never stop essential prescribed medication without medical advice.
5. Treat Complications
As kidney function declines, some people develop anemia, mineral and bone disorders, electrolyte imbalances, or excess fluid.
Treatment depends on test results and may include specific medicines, dietary adjustments, or other medical interventions.
Regular follow-up helps healthcare professionals identify complications and respond before they become more serious.
What Is the Best Diet for Chronic Kidney Disease?
There is no single kidney diet that suits everyone. Nutritional needs depend on the stage of CKD, blood test results, other medical conditions, medications, and whether a person receives dialysis.
A healthcare professional or registered dietitian with kidney expertise can help create a suitable eating plan.
1. Choose a Balanced Variety of Foods
A kidney-friendly eating pattern may include vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and suitable sources of protein.
The appropriate choices and portions depend on your nutritional needs and laboratory results. Some people with advanced CKD need to limit particular foods or nutrients, while others do not.
2. Reduce Excess Sodium
Too much sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and fluid retention.
To reduce sodium intake:
Limit highly salted packaged foods.
Compare sodium information on food labels.
Choose fresh ingredients more often when practical.
Use herbs, spices, lemon, or other flavourings instead of adding large amounts of salt.
Ask your healthcare professional about an appropriate sodium target for your condition.
3. Get the Right Amount of Protein
Protein is essential for maintaining muscles, repairing tissues, and supporting normal body functions.
Some people with CKD who are not receiving dialysis may benefit from a moderate protein intake under professional guidance. People receiving dialysis may have higher protein requirements because treatment can increase protein losses.
Avoid extreme high-protein diets or unnecessary protein supplements without discussing them with your healthcare professional.
4. Monitor Potassium When Necessary
The kidneys help regulate potassium levels in the blood.
Some people with CKD may develop high potassium levels, while others have normal or even low levels. The appropriate diet therefore depends on blood test results and treatment.
Do not automatically eliminate bananas, tomatoes, potatoes, or other nutritious foods unless your healthcare team recommends it.
Also be cautious with potassium-based salt substitutes, which may contain substantial amounts of potassium.
5. Manage Phosphorus When Advised
In advanced CKD, phosphorus may accumulate in the blood, contributing to mineral and bone problems.
Depending on your test results, a dietitian may recommend limiting certain foods or additives containing highly absorbable phosphate.
Do not restrict a broad range of foods unnecessarily. Dietary advice should be individualized to help maintain adequate nutrition.
6. Drink the Right Amount of Fluids
Drinking enough fluid is important for general health, but people with CKD do not all need the same amount.
Some people can drink according to thirst and their usual needs, while others with advanced kidney disease or fluid retention may need a prescribed fluid limit.
Do not force yourself to drink excessive amounts of water to “flush out” your kidneys. Ask your healthcare professional how much fluid is appropriate for your condition.
Can Exercise Help People With Kidney Disease?
Suitable physical activity can support overall health, cardiovascular fitness, blood pressure management, mood, and mobility.
Depending on your health and abilities, activities may include walking, cycling, swimming, or gentle strength exercises.
Helpful approaches include:
Start at a comfortable level and increase activity gradually.
Choose activities you enjoy and can maintain.
Break longer periods of sitting with movement when possible.
Ask your healthcare professional about suitable activity if you have advanced CKD, significant fatigue, heart disease, or other medical limitations.
People with CKD do not necessarily need to avoid exercise. The goal is to choose an activity level that is safe and appropriate for the individual.
What Are the Complications of Chronic Kidney Disease?
Complications become more likely as kidney function declines, although the risk varies from person to person.
1. High Blood Pressure
CKD can make blood pressure more difficult to control. High blood pressure can, in turn, cause further kidney damage.
Monitoring and treatment help manage this relationship.
2. Cardiovascular Disease
People with CKD have a higher risk of conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and other cardiovascular risk factors is an important part of kidney care.
3. Anemia
Damaged kidneys may produce less erythropoietin, a hormone that helps the body make red blood cells.
Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Treatment depends on its severity and underlying cause.
4. Mineral and Bone Disorders
The kidneys help regulate calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. Advanced CKD can disrupt this balance and affect bone health.
Doctors may monitor blood levels and recommend specific treatments when necessary.
5. Fluid Retention
Reduced kidney function can make it harder to remove excess fluid, potentially causing swelling in the legs or ankles.
In more serious cases, fluid may accumulate in the lungs and cause breathlessness.
Severe or sudden shortness of breath requires emergency medical attention.
6. Electrolyte Imbalances
Potassium and other electrolyte levels can become abnormal as kidney function declines.
Significantly high potassium can affect the heart's electrical activity and may become life-threatening. Appropriate monitoring and treatment are important.
7. Kidney Failure
In advanced CKD, the kidneys may eventually lose most of their ability to filter waste and regulate fluid balance.
Some people progress to kidney failure, while others remain stable for many years. The course of the disease depends on its cause, stage, treatment, and individual health factors.
When Is Dialysis Needed?
Dialysis is a treatment that helps remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys can no longer manage these functions adequately.
It may be needed for kidney failure or certain serious complications that cannot be controlled with other treatment.
There are two main types of dialysis.
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis uses a machine and a filter to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood.
Treatment is often provided at a dialysis centre, although some people may receive it at home with appropriate training and support.
The schedule depends on the person's treatment plan.
Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen, called the peritoneum, as a natural filtering surface.
A special fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a catheter. Waste products and excess fluid pass into the fluid, which is then drained.
This type of dialysis can often be performed at home after training.
Not everyone with CKD needs dialysis. The decision depends on kidney function, symptoms, complications, overall health, and the person's preferences. Doctors consider the whole clinical picture rather than relying on a single eGFR number.
What Is a Kidney Transplant?
A kidney transplant is an operation in which a healthy kidney from a suitable donor is placed into a person whose kidneys have failed.
For some eligible people with kidney failure, transplantation can offer improved quality of life and greater freedom from regular dialysis. However, it is a major treatment that requires careful assessment.
After transplantation, recipients generally need lifelong follow-up and medicines to reduce the risk of their immune system rejecting the transplanted kidney.
Not everyone is eligible for a transplant. The transplant team evaluates each person's health, risks, and suitability.
Dialysis, transplantation, and comprehensive supportive care are different options that can be discussed with a kidney specialist when kidney failure develops.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease?
Although not all cases of CKD can be prevented, several steps can help protect kidney health.
Monitor blood pressure: Have it checked regularly and follow treatment recommendations if it is high.
Manage diabetes: Keep up with recommended blood glucose monitoring and kidney screening.
Attend kidney health checks: If you are at increased risk, ask about blood and urine testing.
Eat a balanced diet: Choose varied, nutritious foods and limit excessive sodium.
Stay physically active: Choose regular activity that suits your health and abilities.
Avoid smoking: Seek support if you need help quitting.
Use medicines safely: Ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist about medication risks, especially if you already have kidney problems.
Maintain a healthy weight: Focus on sustainable habits rather than extreme diets.
Follow up on abnormal tests: Ask your clinician whether repeat testing or additional assessment is needed.
If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, do not wait until symptoms appear before discussing kidney screening. Early CKD may not cause noticeable changes in how you feel.
Conclusion
Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition that can gradually affect the kidneys' ability to filter blood, regulate fluids, and support other essential body functions.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are two major causes, but inherited conditions, inflammation, urinary tract problems, and other medical issues can also contribute.
Because early CKD often causes no symptoms, blood and urine tests are important for people at increased risk. Tests such as eGFR and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio can help identify kidney problems and guide treatment.
Although established kidney damage cannot always be reversed, managing blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular risk factors, and other complications can help protect kidney health. A personalized diet, appropriate physical activity, safe medication use, and regular medical follow-up are also important.
People with advanced disease may need additional treatments, including dialysis or a kidney transplant, but not everyone with CKD progresses to kidney failure.
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other kidney disease risk factors, ask your healthcare professional whether regular kidney function testing is appropriate for you.
Related Articles
- Why Is My Urine Foamy? Causes & When to See a Doctor
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Chronic kidney disease and its treatment vary between individuals. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice about your symptoms, test results, diet, medicines, or treatment options. Do not start or stop medication or make major dietary changes without appropriate medical guidance. Seek urgent medical care for severe or sudden symptoms, including significant difficulty breathing or chest pain.
References
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd
National Kidney Foundation. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Chronic kidney disease: assessment and management (NG203). https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng203
NHS. Chronic Kidney Disease. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/
NIDDK. Eating Right for Chronic Kidney Disease. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd/eating-nutrition
National Kidney Foundation. Dialysis. https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/dialysis
NHS. Kidney Transplant. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-transplant/
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