Definition

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is when the kidneys do not filter blood the right way. It happens over a long period of time. This causes waste to build up in the body and leads to other health problems.

Anatomy of the Kidney Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

CKD is caused by damage or disease in the kidneys. Common causes include:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Problems with the kidneys, such as:
  • Cystic kidney disease
  • Blockages from kidney stones
  • Glomerulonephritis
  • Acute tubular necrosis
  • Renal tubular disorders
  • Damage due to drugs or toxins
• Severe infection
• Problems with the immune system

Risk Factors

CFD is more common in older adults. Smoking and alcohol use disorder are the main risk factors. Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Family history of kidney disease
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Vesicoureteral reflux —back up of urine into kidneys
• Infections, such as long term urinary tract infections
• Exposure to high levels of lead
• Being overweight or obese
• A prior kidney transplant

Symptoms

CKD may cause problems such as:

• Feeling tired or weak
• Trouble sleeping
• Not wanting to eat
• Nausea
• Itching
• Feeling that it is hard to breathe
• Change in how food tastes
• Feeling confused, restless, or sad

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam may be done. Blood and urine tests will be done to see how well the kidneys are working.

Other tests will be done to find a cause. You may need to see a doctor who treats kidney diseases.

Treatment

There is no cure. The goal of treatment is to prevent or slow damage and manage problems. Options are:

Prevention

To lower the risk of CKD:

• Manage health problems that can cause kidney damage, such as high blood pressure and diabetes
• Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise
• Do not smoke
• Limit alcohol