What Is CKD?
The NHS describes kidney disease as a long-term condition where the kidneys don't work as well as they should. It's a common condition often associated with getting older. CKD can get worse over time and eventually the kidneys may stop working altogether, but this is uncommon. Many people with CKD are able to live long lives with the condition.
If you believe you may be suffering from CKD or need advice managing your own condition you should always seek the advice of an experienced medical professional. This resource was not put together by doctors and is simply the combined experiences of different people with or close to the condition. your renal team will be able to advise you based on your medical history and condition.
What are the Symptoms?
In the early stages CKD often has no symptoms. Your body has a natural over capacity so your kidney function can fall by a considerable percentage before you start to feel unwell.
As kidney function continues to fall patients often develop:
- tiredness
- swollen ankles, feet or hands
- shortness of breath
- feeling sick
- blood in your pee (urine)
If you believe you may be suffering from CKD and have not yet been diagnosed you should speak with your GP
What causes CKD?
In many cases CKD has no cause. Some children are born with missing or failing kidneys. More commonly Chronic kidney disease is caused by other conditions that put a strain on the kidneys. Often it's the result of a combination of different problems.
CKD can be caused by:
- High Blood Pressure
- Diabetes
- Kidney infections
- Certain medications