CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: RECOGNISING THE SIGNS AND UNDERSTANDING THE STAGES
In our previous article, we explored the important role of the kidneys and how they help keep the body healthy and balanced. CKD usually develops slowly over time, and many people may not experience noticeable symptoms during the early stages. This is why CKD can often go unnoticed until kidney function has significantly declined
Sign and Symptoms of CKD
As CKD progresses, symptoms may become more noticeable and can include the following:
When kidney function declines, these essential functions can become impaired, affecting multiple systems throughout the body. This condition can lead to kidney disease includes acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Stages of CKD
CKD is assessed using two key tests: a blood test called the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and a urine test called the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR).
The eGFR estimates how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood. As CKD progresses, eGFR may decline, indicating a reduction in kidney function. The uACR measures the amount of albumin in your urine and can help detect kidney damage
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Stage 1
eGFR > 90
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Stage 2
eGFR 60 - 89
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Stage 3
3A eGFR 45 - 59
3B eGFR 30 - 44
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Stage 4
eGFR 15 - 29
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Stage 5
eGFR < 15
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal kidney function with signs of kidney damage | Mild decline in kidney function | Moderately decline kidney function | Severely decline kidney function | Renal failure |
To confirm CKD and determine its stage, these tests are generally repeated over time to establish that kidney abnormalities have persisted for 3 months or longer.
In advanced CKD, kidney function may decline significantly. Individuals with kidney failure may eventually need kidney replacement therapy, such as dialysis or a kidney transplant.
In conclusion, understanding the signs and symptoms of CKD, as well as its different stages, can help us recognise potential changes in kidney health and understand why early detection and regular monitoring are important.