Chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work as well as they should. The kidneys play an important role in filtering waste products and excess fluid from the blood.

CKD often develops slowly over time and may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Many people only discover they have kidney disease through routine blood or urine tests.

Early diagnosis and good management can help slow the progression of the condition and reduce the risk of complications.

What the kidneys do

Your kidneys perform several important functions that help keep your body healthy. They:

• Filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood
• Help control blood pressure
• Balance important minerals such as sodium and potassium
• Support the production of red blood cells
• Maintain healthy bones by regulating vitamin D

When the kidneys are damaged, these functions may not work as effectively.

Causes of chronic kidney disease

CKD is often linked to other health conditions that place strain on the kidneys over time.

The most common causes include:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Heart and circulatory disease
• Long-term use of certain medications
• Inflammation of the kidneys
• Inherited conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease

Managing underlying health conditions can help reduce the risk of kidney damage.

Symptoms of chronic kidney disease

Many people with early-stage CKD have no symptoms. As kidney function declines, symptoms may develop.

Possible symptoms include:

• Feeling more tired than usual
• Swollen ankles, feet or hands
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling sick or having a reduced appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in how often you urinate

These symptoms can be caused by many conditions, so it is important to speak to a healthcare professional if you are concerned.

Who is at higher risk

You may have a higher risk of developing CKD if you:

• Have diabetes
• Have high blood pressure
• Have cardiovascular disease
• Are over the age of 60
• Have a family history of kidney disease
• Are from certain ethnic backgrounds where risk is higher

Your GP may recommend routine blood and urine tests if you are in a higher-risk group.

Managing chronic kidney disease

Although CKD cannot usually be cured, treatment and lifestyle changes can help slow its progression and protect kidney function.

Management may include:

• Controlling blood pressure
• Managing diabetes carefully
• Taking prescribed medications
• Following advice about diet and salt intake
• Staying physically active
• Avoiding smoking

Your healthcare team may also monitor kidney function regularly through blood and urine tests.

Protecting your kidney health

There are steps you can take to help protect your kidneys and reduce the risk of kidney disease:

• Keep blood pressure within a healthy range
• Manage diabetes effectively
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay physically active
• Avoid smoking
• Drink enough fluids
• Have regular health checks if you are at higher risk

Small lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in protecting your long-term kidney health.

When to seek medical advice

Speak to your GP or healthcare professional if you:

• Have symptoms that may be linked to kidney disease
• Have diabetes or high blood pressure and have not had recent kidney tests
• Notice swelling in your ankles, feet or hands
• Experience ongoing fatigue or changes in urination

Early testing can help identify kidney problems and allow treatment to begin sooner.

Support and further advice

If you are living with chronic kidney disease, your healthcare team can support you with treatment, monitoring and lifestyle advice.

Local healthcare services, pharmacies and GP practices can also provide guidance on managing long-term conditions and protecting your kidney health.