Your kidneys play a major role in your overall wellness by filtering out waste, toxins, and excess fluid from your blood. When your kidneys are damaged, wastes, toxins, and fluids can accumulate, causing more damage and leading to significant health issues. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition that can eventually lead to kidney failure. Early detection and consistent, proactive care can help slow its progression and maintain kidney function for as long as possible. Learn more kidney disease basics to manage your condition.*

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease 

CKD occurs when the tiny filtering structures inside your kidneys sustain lasting damage that worsens over time. If the condition progresses to kidney failure, life-sustaining treatments such as dialysis or a kidney transplant become necessary. You should undergo routine blood and urine tests to monitor your kidney function if you have:

• Diabetes, 
• High blood pressure, or 
• A family history of CKD.

CKD is categorized into five stages, each requiring different levels of care and intervention. Symptoms may not be noticeable in the early stages, making routine check-ups essential. By making healthy lifestyle choices and taking prescribed medications, you can significantly slow down the disease’s progression and preserve your remaining kidney function.

Stages and Symptoms of CKD

During stages 1 and 2, people often feel “normal,” without noticeable symptoms. When the disease advances to stage 3, however, moderate kidney damage may lead to:

• Fatigue,  
• Swelling in the hands and feet, and 
• Changes in urine appearance (dark and/or foamy). 

At this point, lifestyle changes and regular medical monitoring can help prevent further progression.

In stage 4, kidney damage becomes more severe, and certain symptoms become more pronounced, such as:

• Persistent swelling, 
• Lower back pain, and 
• Changes in urination patterns regarding urge and frequency. 

This stage requires working closely with healthcare providers to plan for potential treatment options and build a support network. In stage 5, also known as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), the kidneys have lost nearly all function, necessitating dialysis or a transplant.

Taking Action for Kidney Health

The good news is that early detection and proactive lifestyle changes can slow the progression of CKD and improve your quality of life. This can include:

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle including diet and exercise,
• Staying hydrated, 
• Managing blood pressure and diabetes, and 
• Adhering to prescribed treatments.

Regular visits to your healthcare provider, consulting with a renal dietitian, and discussing treatment options with a kidney specialist are essential steps for managing CKD effectively. By understanding the role of kidneys and the potential risks of CKD, you can take charge of your health and make informed decisions to support your well-being.

*American Kidney Fund [kidneyfund]. (2022, October 24). 5 Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) | Know Your Kidneys | AKF [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ok1eoHHzQT4 

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