Chronic Kidney Disease
Also known as: CKD, Chronic Renal Failure, Chronic Renal Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, eventually leading to the kidneys' inability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood effectively. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two leading causes of CKD. Early detection and management of underlying conditions can slow disease progression and delay the need for dialysis or kidney transplantation.
At a Glance
- Common symptoms
- Often asymptomatic in early stages, Fatigue and weakness, Swelling in feet, ankles, or around the eyes (edema)
- Main treatments
- Blood pressure control (ACE inhibitors or ARBs preferred), Blood sugar management for diabetic kidney disease, SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin) to slow CKD progression
- Category
- Urological · Affects approximately 37 million Americans (15% of adults)
- See a doctor if
- You have diabetes or hypertension and haven't had kidney function tested
Symptoms
Causes
- Diabetes (type 1 and type 2)—leading cause
- High blood pressure (hypertension)—second leading cause
- Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filtering units)
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Prolonged urinary tract obstruction
- Recurrent kidney infections
Risk Factors
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Family history of kidney disease
- Age over 60
- African American, Hispanic, or Native American ancestry
Diagnosis
- Blood test for glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
- Urine test for albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR)
- Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels
- Kidney ultrasound to assess size and structure
- Kidney biopsy in select cases to determine cause
Treatment
- Blood pressure control (ACE inhibitors or ARBs preferred)
- Blood sugar management for diabetic kidney disease
- SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin) to slow CKD progression
- Dietary modifications (low sodium, low potassium, low phosphorus)
- Dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal) for end-stage kidney disease
- Kidney transplantation
Prevention
- Manage diabetes and blood pressure effectively
- Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly
- Avoid overuse of NSAIDs and nephrotoxic medications
- Stay well hydrated
- Get regular kidney function tests if at risk
When to See a Doctor
- You have diabetes or hypertension and haven't had kidney function tested
- You notice swelling in your legs, ankles, or around your eyes
- Your urine appears foamy, dark, or bloody
- You experience persistent fatigue, nausea, or changes in urination
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
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