long lasting kidney

Overview

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition where your kidneys slowly lose their ability to filter waste from your blood. This damage happens over many years and is usually permanent. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that remove extra fluid and waste, help control blood pressure, and keep bones healthy.

Yes, chronic kidney disease is quite common. It is estimated that about 1 in 10 people have some degree of CKD, though many are not aware of it.

CKD can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in adults over 60, people with high blood pressure or diabetes, and those with a family history of kidney disease.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling more tired than usual
• Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands (edema)
• Changes in how much you urinate
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps, especially at night

Symptoms in children

• Poor growth or weight gain
• Frequent urination or bedwetting
• Pale skin or anemia
• High blood pressure

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or trouble concentrating
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Dry and itchy skin
• More frequent infections

Causes

Main causes

• Diabetes (high blood sugar damages the kidneys)
• High blood pressure (damages blood vessels in the kidneys)
• Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney filters)
• Polycystic kidney disease (an inherited condition causing cysts)

Risk factors

• Being over 60 years old
• Having a family history of kidney disease
• Smoking
• Being overweight or obese
• Having heart disease

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Sudden difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Severe confusion

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, get checked regularly
• If you notice swelling or changes in urination
• If you have a family history of kidney disease

Diagnosis

A doctor diagnoses chronic kidney disease with blood and urine tests. The blood test checks your creatinine level to calculate eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate), which shows how well your kidneys filter. The urine test looks for protein or blood.

Tests that may be done

• Blood test for creatinine and eGFR
• Urine test for protein or blood
• Imaging tests like ultrasound to see kidney size and shape
• Kidney biopsy (taking a tiny sample of kidney tissue) in some cases

What to expect at your appointment

You will likely need to have these tests repeated over time to monitor your kidney function. Your doctor will explain your eGFR number and what it means. They may also check your blood pressure and urine regularly.

Treatment

Treatment for CKD focuses on slowing the damage and managing the underlying causes. There is no cure, but many people live well for years with proper care.

Self-care at home

• Take all medicines exactly as prescribed
• Monitor your blood pressure at home
• Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen unless a doctor says it is safe
• Limit salt and processed foods
• Stay active – moderate exercise helps

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe medicines to control blood pressure, manage diabetes, reduce protein loss in urine, treat anemia, or lower cholesterol. If kidney function drops very low, you may need dialysis (a machine that filters your blood) or a kidney transplant.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is mainly needed for a kidney transplant. This is considered when kidney failure occurs and you are a suitable candidate. Dialysis is a non-surgical option.

Living with this condition

Living with CKD means taking care of your overall health. Keep up with doctor visits, take medicines as prescribed, and watch for changes in how you feel.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat a kidney-friendly diet (low in salt, protein, and potassium – ask your doctor or dietitian)
• Stay physically active
• Quit smoking
• Limit alcohol
• Manage stress

Diet and exercise

A dietitian can help you plan meals that are easier on your kidneys. Avoid high-salt foods. Regular gentle exercise like walking can help control blood pressure and weight. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Knowing you have a long-term condition can be stressful. It is common to feel anxious, sad, or frustrated. Talk to your doctor if you feel this way – they can suggest support groups or counseling.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent CKD, but you can lower your risk by controlling blood pressure and diabetes, eating a healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, and limiting salt and processed foods.

Vaccines

Vaccines against flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 are recommended for people with CKD to prevent infections that can worsen kidney health.

Screening programmes

If you are at higher risk (diabetes, high blood pressure, family history, age over 60), ask your doctor for a kidney function test at least once a year. An early finding can make a big difference.

Complications

If left untreated

• High blood pressure getting worse
• Anemia (low red blood cells)
• Bone disease
• Fluid buildup in lungs
• End-stage kidney disease requiring dialysis or transplant

Long-term outlook

With early detection and proper care, many people with CKD can slow the disease and live a full life. Treatments like medicines, lifestyle changes, and, if needed, dialysis or transplant have greatly improved outcomes. Your healthcare team will help you manage the condition step by step.

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