Overview
Chronic kidney disease is a slow, lasting loss of kidney function over months or years, so the kidneys gradually filter waste and fluid less well. It is common in people with diabetes and high blood pressure and often causes no symptoms until it is advanced, which is why blood and urine tests matter for those at risk. Early detection and good control of blood sugar and pressure can slow it greatly; advanced disease may need dialysis or a transplant.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms in the early stages
- Swelling of the ankles, feet or around the eyes
- Tiredness and poor appetite
- Passing more or less urine than usual, or frothy urine
- Itching, nausea and breathlessness in advanced disease
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for swelling, changes in urine, or if you have diabetes or high blood pressure — simple tests can catch kidney disease early.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Severe breathlessness, very little or no urine, confusion, or chest pain — seek care urgently
Causes
Most often long-standing diabetes and high blood pressure; also repeated kidney infections, stones, and some inherited and inflammatory conditions.