Overview

Chronic kidney disease is a long-term illness that makes it harder for the kidneys to remove excess fluids and waste products from the blood. The kidneys are very important for maintaining the body's fluid balance, controlling blood pressure, and producing hormones that help form red blood cells and keep bones healthy. CKD usually worsens over months or years, and in the early stages, it may not cause noticeable symptoms. When the kidneys stop working properly, waste builds up in the body, which can cause health problems. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important for slowing disease progression and preventing kidney failure.

Symptoms
Chronic kidney disease may not show any signs at first. As the disease gets worse, people may feel tired, have swollen legs or ankles, lose their appetite, feel sick, and have changes in how often they urinate. You may have trouble breathing, muscle cramps, dry skin, and concentrating. Advanced disease can cause severe weakness and too much fluid in the body.

Causes
Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two most common causes of chronic kidney disease. Other causes include glomerulonephritis, inherited kidney diseases, long-term use of certain medicines, and autoimmune diseases. Frequent urinary tract infections and kidney stones may also play a role. Poorly managed chronic conditions greatly raise the risk of kidney damage getting worse.

Diagnosis
Blood tests are part of the diagnostic process to assess kidney function and detect waste buildup. Urine tests check for protein leaks and other problems. Ultrasound and other imaging tests can help doctors figure out the size and shape of the kidneys. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease should get regular screenings.

Treatment
The goal of treatment is to slow the disease's progression and address any issues that arise. It is very important to keep blood sugar and blood pressure in check. Doctors may give you drugs to help you keep your fluid balance and stop losing protein. Changes to the diet, such as reducing salt and protein intake, are often recommended. In advanced stages, dialysis or kidney transplantation might be necessary to restore lost kidney function.

The prognosis depends on the stage and management of underlying conditions. Finding the problem early and keeping an eye on it can greatly slow down its progress. Dialysis or transplantation may be necessary for advanced disease, but good care can help people live longer and better lives.