Kidney & Urinary
Chronic Kidney Disease
About Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which are then excreted in urine.
Common Symptoms
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Swelling in ankles, feet, or legs
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Changes in urination frequency
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Dry, itchy skin
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Shortness of breath
- High blood pressure
Diagnosis
CKD is typically diagnosed through blood and urine tests. A common blood test measures creatinine levels to estimate the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which indicates how well the kidneys are filtering. Urine tests can detect protein or blood, which may signal kidney damage.
Causes
Common causes of CKD include long-standing conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension) and diabetes. Other factors that may contribute to CKD include recurrent kidney infections, certain genetic disorders, and prolonged use of some medications.
Treatment Overview
Management of CKD often involves an individualized approach focused on slowing its progression and managing symptoms. Conventional medical strategies may include medications to control blood pressure, manage diabetes, and address related complications. Some individuals also explore dietary modifications, and in advanced stages, treatments like dialysis or kidney transplantation may be considered.
Prognosis & Outlook
The prognosis for CKD can vary widely depending on the stage of the disease, underlying causes, and how well it is managed. While CKD is a progressive condition, early diagnosis and consistent management may help slow its advancement for many individuals.
Types & Variants
Stage 1
Kidney damage with normal or high kidney function (eGFR > 90).
Stage 2
Mild loss of kidney function (eGFR 60-89).
Stage 3a
Mild to moderate loss of kidney function (eGFR 45-59).
Stage 3b
Moderate to severe loss of kidney function (eGFR 30-44).
Stage 4
Severe loss of kidney function (eGFR 15-29).
Stage 5
Kidney failure (eGFR < 15), often requiring dialysis or transplant.
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