Chronic kidney disease, usually shortened to CKD, means the kidneys have been damaged or have a structural problem that affects how well they filter the blood. CKD often develops gradually, and many people feel completely well in the earlier stages. That is one reason regular testing is so important for people who are at higher risk.
Who is more likely to develop CKD?
Common risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, a family history of kidney disease, previous kidney injury, and certain immune or inherited conditions. Having a risk factor does not mean that kidney disease is inevitable, but it does make regular monitoring more important.
How is CKD detected?
Kidney assessment usually combines a blood test and a urine test. The blood test is used to estimate glomerular filtration rate, or eGFR, which gives an idea of how well the kidneys are filtering. A urine test can look for albumin, a protein that may leak into urine when the kidney filters are damaged.
One abnormal result does not always establish chronic kidney disease. Your doctor may repeat tests, review previous results, assess medicines and medical history, and sometimes recommend imaging or other investigations.
Does CKD always cause symptoms?
No. Early CKD may cause no obvious symptoms. As kidney function worsens, some people may develop swelling, tiredness, poor appetite, nausea, itching, changes in urination, breathlessness, or difficulty controlling blood pressure. These symptoms can have many causes, so they should be evaluated rather than self-diagnosed.
What is the goal of CKD treatment?
The aim is to understand the cause, slow further kidney damage where possible, manage complications, and reduce cardiovascular risk. Depending on the individual, that may include blood pressure control, diabetes management, medicine review, nutrition guidance, monitoring of electrolytes and haemoglobin, vaccination planning, and preparing early for kidney replacement therapy if kidney function becomes severely reduced.
When should you see a kidney specialist?
Consider nephrology assessment if kidney function is persistently reduced, urine protein is elevated, kidney function is declining, blood pressure is difficult to control, there are unexplained electrolyte abnormalities, or your treating doctor recommends specialist review.
Trusted patient education sources
This guide is written in patient-friendly language using established kidney education principles from the U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and, for dialysis access, the National Kidney Foundation. It is not a substitute for personal medical advice.