Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Understanding kidney health and how to protect your kidneys
Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood. It is common, affecting around 3 million people in the UK, and often goes undetected for many years because symptoms may not appear until the disease is at an advanced stage.
How do the kidneys work?
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located in the back of the abdomen. Their main job is to filter the blood — removing waste products and excess water as urine. They also regulate blood pressure, produce hormones that control red blood cell production, and keep mineral levels such as calcium and phosphate in balance. When the kidneys are damaged, these important functions are gradually lost.
What causes CKD?
The most common causes of CKD in the UK are diabetes and high blood pressure, which damage the tiny blood vessels within the kidneys over time. Other causes include recurrent kidney infections, kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis), blockages in the urinary system, and certain inherited conditions such as polycystic kidney disease. Some medications, if taken long-term, can also affect kidney function.
Symptoms and diagnosis
In the early stages, CKD usually has no symptoms at all — it is typically detected through routine blood and urine tests. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include tiredness, ankle swelling, shortness of breath, nausea, blood in the urine, and needing to urinate more frequently at night. CKD is staged from G1 to G5 based on kidney function, with G5 representing kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplantation.
Protecting your kidneys
There is a great deal that can be done to slow the progression of CKD and protect the kidneys from further damage. Controlling blood pressure and blood glucose (if diabetic) are the two most important steps. Medications are often prescribed to help achieve this. It is also vital to avoid medications that can harm the kidneys — particularly anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen and naproxen, which should not be taken regularly in CKD.
Living with CKD
Many people with CKD — particularly in the earlier stages — live full, active lives. Regular check-ups and blood tests allow your healthcare team to monitor your kidney function and adjust treatment as needed. Dietary advice may be given as the disease progresses, particularly regarding potassium, phosphate and fluid intake. If CKD progresses towards kidney failure, your team will discuss options for renal replacement therapy including dialysis and transplantation well in advance. This content has been prepared following careful evaluation of current nephrology guidelines. Kidney Care UK provides excellent support for people affected by kidney disease.