A progressive loss of kidney function is a feature of chronic kidney disease, also known as chronic kidney failure. Conditions that harm your kidneys and minimise their capacity to keep you healthy by filtering waste from your blood are included in chronic kidney disease. Wastes can accumulate to high levels in your blood and make you feel ill if kidney disease worsens.

An individual is more likely to develop heart and blood vessel problems if they have kidney disease. The occurrence of these issues may be gradual and protracted. The progression of chronic kidney disease can frequently be halted by early detection and treatment. If kidney disease is left untreated, it could eventually result in kidney failure, which calls for dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive.

Complications that can arise

• High blood pressure
• Anemia (low blood count)
• Weak bones
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Nerve damage

3 warning signs that you may experience because of kidney failure are swelling, changes in urination, dizziness and fatigue.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “CKD is more common in people aged 65 years or older (38%) than in people aged 45–64 years (12%) or 18–44 years (6%). CKD is slightly more common in women (14%) than men (12%). CKD is more common in non-Hispanic Black adults (16%) than in non-Hispanic White adults (13%) or non-Hispanic Asian adults (13%).”

Main causes of chronic kidney disease

Diabetes: When your blood sugar levels stay too high, diabetes develops. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels over time can harm your kidneys, heart, blood vessels, nerves, and eyes, among other body organs.

High blood pressure: When your blood pressure increases against the walls of your blood vessels, you develop high blood pressure. High blood pressure can be a major factor in heart attacks, strokes, and chronic kidney disease if it is uncontrolled or poorly controlled. Also, high blood pressure can be brought on by chronic kidney disease.

While kidney damage cannot be reversed, it can be slowed down with the right measures. Managing underlying conditions can help prevent chronic kidney disease. Quit smoking, maintain a healthy diet, limit your alcohol intake, engage in regular exercise, check and control your blood sugar, check and control your blood pressure are some ways to prevent chronic kidney disease.