Kidney Health Matters | April Edition
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD):
- Understanding Stages & How to Slow Progression-
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a growing global health concern, affecting approximately 850 million people worldwide, according to the International Society of Nephrology.
It’s a progressive condition—the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. The tricky part? CKD often progresses silently, so many people don’t realize they have it until it’s already advanced.
The good news: Early detection and proper management can slow down CKD and prevent serious complications like kidney failure and cardiovascular disease.
In this guide, we'll cover:
The five stages of CKD
Warning signs to watch for
Key lifestyle changes to protect your kidneys
What Are the Stages of CKD?
CKD is divided into five stages, based on your eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate)—this tells how well your kidneys are filtering waste. The lower the eGFR, the worse the kidney function.
🟢 Stage 1: Kidney Damage with Normal Function (eGFR ≥ 90 mL/min)
Kidney function is still normal
Early signs may include protein or blood in the urine
Risk increases with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease
Usually no symptoms—regular kidney function tests are key!
🟡 Stage 2: Mild Kidney Function Decline (eGFR 60–89 mL/min)
Slight decrease in kidney function
Often still symptom-free
Conditions like diabetes or hypertension may show subtle signs (like protein in urine)
Lifestyle changes + medical support can help stop progression
🟠 Stage 3: Moderate Kidney Function Decline (eGFR 30–59 mL/min)
Now the kidneys aren’t functioning at their best
You might start to notice:
Fatigue
Swelling (edema)
Urination changes
High blood pressure
Blood tests may show elevated waste levels (creatinine, urea)
Diet, blood pressure control, and medications become crucial
🔴 Stage 4: Severe Kidney Function Decline (eGFR 15–29 mL/min)
Kidney damage is significant
Symptoms become more pronounced:
Nausea
Loss of appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Persistent swelling
Severe fatigue
It’s time to prepare for dialysis or transplant
⚫ Stage 5: Kidney Failure (End-Stage Renal Disease – eGFR < 15 mL/min)
Kidney function is critically low
Waste builds up dangerously in the body
Symptoms may include:
Extreme fatigue
Muscle cramps
Shortness of breath
Confusion
Fluid overload
At this stage, dialysis or a kidney transplant is essential
-Warning Signs of CKD-
Many people don’t know they have CKD until it’s advanced—but here are signs that might appear as it progresses:
Persistent fatigue & weakness
Swelling (legs, ankles, face)
Foamy or bubbly urine
High blood pressure
Frequent urination—especially at night
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
If you notice any of these, get kidney function tests ASAP.
-How to Prevent CKD Progression-
Even though CKD usually can’t be reversed, you can slow or stop its progression with these important steps:
1. Control Blood Pressure and Diabetes
These are the top causes of CKD
Aim for blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg
Use medications, exercise, and a low-sodium diet
If diabetic, monitor your blood sugar closely to prevent diabetic nephropathy
2. Adopt a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Cut back on salt, processed foods, and red meat
Focus on:
Fresh fruits & veggies
Whole grains
Healthy fats
If your doctor advises, limit high-phosphorus and potassium foods (like bananas, oranges, tomatoes, dairy)
Stay hydrated—but follow fluid advice from your doctor
3. Avoid Overuse of Kidney-Harming Meds
NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can harm your kidneys over time
Use over-the-counter meds sparingly, and only when needed
4. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
Smoking reduces kidney blood flow and worsens damage
Too much alcohol can raise blood pressure and strain kidneys
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight & Stay Active
Obesity increases your risk for CKD, hypertension, and diabetes
Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week
6. Get Regular Kidney Function Tests
If you have risk factors (like diabetes, high blood pressure, or family history), get checked regularly
Tests include:
Blood (creatinine, eGFR)
Urine (protein levels)
The Bottom Line
CKD is serious—but manageable.
With early detection, good medical care, and the right lifestyle choices, you can slow the disease and reduce the risk of complications.
If you or someone you love is at risk, don’t wait—start taking action today. Your kidneys will thank you! 💚
- References -
Written By Mohammad Aljamali
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