CKD

What Is CKD?

Chronic Kidney Disease is also called chronic renal insufficiency. It is caused by damage to the kidneys. There are five stages of CKD. The stage of CKD is determined based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

  • Stage 1 Kidney damage with normal or increased GFR >90
  • Stage 2 Kidney damage with mild decrease in GFR 60-89
  • Stage 3 Kidney damage with moderate decrease in GFR 30-59
  • Stage 4 Kidney damage with large decrease in GFR 15-29
  • Stage 5 Kidney failure with need for dialysis or transplant

There are things that may slow or stop the damage to the kidneys such as taking your medications to control your blood pressure and diabetes, making lifestyle changes and perhaps following a special diet.

Symptoms of CKD:

In the early stage of CKD, most people do not have any symptoms. This stage can last several years until your kidney function significantly decreases.

Symptoms you may experience include:

  1. Swelling of legs, hands and face called edema
  2. Feeling tired and having difficulty sleeping
  3. Loss of appetite
  4. Weight loss
  5. Urinating less than normal

Diagnosis of CKD:

Your doctor will ask you questions about your family history of kidney disease, your general health, other illnesses you may have and what medications you take. Blood tests to measure your creatinine and urea levels will be done. As kidney disease progresses the levels in your blood increase. Your level of red blood cells will be checked to see if you are anemic.

You may also have tests that look at a picture of your kidneys, such as ultrasound or CT scans to help your doctor evaluate your kidneys. The doctor may perform a kidney biopsy (take a tiny sample of your kidney tissue).

Treatment of CKD:

Chronic Kidney disease is usually caused by another condition, so often your doctor will focus your care on treating the underlying problem. You will probably be prescribed different medication to treat your bone disease and anemia. You should work closely with your doctor, keep your appointments and check with your doctor before taking any new medications, using over-the-counter medications, herbs and vitamins, as these may worsen kidney disease.

Some of the following may help to slow or stop further kidney damage:

  • Treatment of diabetes (keeping your blood sugar well controlled)
  • Treatment of your high blood pressure
  • Keeping your weight in a healthy range and regular exercise may help
  • Your doctor may prescribe a diet that will limit the amount of salt, protein and fluid you consume each day.