What is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic kidney disease, which is also known as chronic kidney failure, is the gradual loss of kidney function. The kidneys filter waste and excess fluid from the body and excretes them through the urine. When chronic kidney disease is in the later stages, high levels of waste, electrolytes and fluid can build up in the body.
In the earlier stages of chronic kidney disease, you may have few to no signs or symptoms and chronic kidney disease may not become apparent until the later stages when the kidney function is already significantly impaired.
Fast Facts
Who is at risk of Chronic Kidney Disease?
There are several factors that can increase the risk of chronic kidney disease such as:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Being African-American, Native American or Asian-American
- Family history of kidney disease
- Abnormal kidney structure
- Older age
To help reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease:
- Follow the instructions on over-the-counter medication
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Don’t smoke
- Manage your medical condition’s with the help of your doctor
Biomarkers
Symptoms
