Chronic kidney disease, often called CKD, is a long-term condition that affects how well your kidneys filter waste and extra fluid from your blood. Healthy kidneys work quietly behind the scenes every day — removing toxins, balancing minerals and supporting blood pressure control.

When kidney function declines, waste can accumulate in your body. Over time, untreated CKD can lead to serious health issues.

When detected early, chronic kidney disease can often be managed with the right care, lifestyle adjustments and regular checkups.

What causes chronic kidney disease?

CKD typically develops gradually. The most common causes include:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Family history of kidney disease
• Long-term use of certain medications
• Repeated kidney infections

Because CKD often develops quietly, many people don’t realize they have it until kidney function has already declined. That’s why routine lab work and preventive care are crucial — especially if you’re managing diabetes or high blood pressure.

Chronic kidney disease symptoms

Early stages of CKD may not cause noticeable symptoms. As kidney function decreases, you might notice:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Swelling in the legs, ankles or feet
• Changes in urination
• Foamy or bloody urine
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or loss of appetite
• Muscle cramps
• Trouble concentrating

If you notice changes in urination or persistent swelling, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider.

For severe symptoms such as chest pain, confusion or difficulty breathing, seek emergency care immediately.

Understanding CKD stages

Chronic kidney disease is divided into five stages, based on how well your kidneys are filtering blood. These stages are determined through lab tests that assess kidney function.

• Stages 1-2: Mild kidney damage with normal or slightly reduced function

• Stage 3: Moderate loss of kidney function

• Stage 4: Severe reduction in kidney function

• Stage 5: Kidney failure, which may require dialysis or a transplant

Many people live for years in the early stages of CKD with proper monitoring and care. The goal of treatment is to slow progression and protect remaining kidney function.

How we diagnose chronic kidney disease

We use simple blood and urine tests to evaluate kidney health.

Testing may include:

• Blood tests that measure creatinine and calculate estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)

• Urine tests that check for protein or blood

• Imaging tests when needed

These tests help us determine the stage of CKD and build a personalized treatment plan.

Chronic kidney disease treatment

There is no cure for CKD, but kidney disease treatment focuses on slowing progression and managing related conditions.

Your care plan may include:

Managing blood pressure
Controlling blood pressure is one of the most important steps in protecting kidney function

Managing diabetes
If you have diabetes, keeping blood sugar levels in a healthy range can significantly reduce kidney damage.

Medications
Certain medications help protect kidney function or reduce protein loss in urine.

Nutrition changes
A kidney-friendly diet may limit sodium, phosphorus and protein, depending on your stage of CKD.

Dialysis
In advanced stages, dialysis may be needed to filter waste from the blood. If appropriate, we coordinate care with nephrology specialists for evaluation and long-term management.

Our focus is always on preserving kidney function as long as possible and supporting your quality of life.

Living well with chronic kidney disease

Small steps can make a meaningful difference in kidney health.

• Monitor blood pressure and blood sugar.

• Make heart-healthy food choices.

• Stay active safely.

• Avoid medications that may stress the kidneys.

• Avoid medications that may stress the kidneys.

Our Get Healthy, Live Well classes may also support healthy eating and lifestyle changes that protect kidney function. Learn more at tanner.org/classes-and-events.

When to contact your provider

Contact your provider if you notice swelling, changes in urination, persistent fatigue or rising blood pressure. Early treatment can slow the progression of CKD.

For severe symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, call 911.