CKD Made Simple: 10 Key Facts for Patients

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CKD Made Simple: 10 Key Facts for Patients

1. WHAT CKD IS

CKD is a long‑term reduction in kidney function (or abnormal structure with normal function)
Often silent in early stages
Usually stable for many years
Only 1% progress to kidney failure (CKD5, see below)

2. 5 CKD STAGES (eGFR)

Stage	eGFR	Meaning
CKD1–2	≥60 ml/min	Normal/near‑normal function + signs of damage
CKD3A	45–59	Mild reduction
CKD3B	30–44	Moderate reduction
CKD4	15–29	Severe reduction
CKD5	<15	Kidney failure

3. ALBUMINURIA (ACR)

Protein in urine = early sign of kidney damage.

Category	ACR	Meaning
A1	<3	Normal/mild
A2	3–30	Moderate
A3	>30	High

Higher CKD Stage + higher A = higher risk.

4. COMMON CAUSES

Diabetes
High blood pressure
Age‑related kidney blood vessel changes
Inflammation (glomerulonephritis, GN)
Blockages (prostate, stones)
Genetic conditions (polycystic kidneys, PKD)

5. SYMPTOMS (OFTEN LATE)

Tiredness
Swollen ankles
Breathlessness
Itching or cramps
Nausea
Night‑time urination

6. RED FLAGS — SEEK URGENT HELP

Chest pain
Severe breathlessness
Very little urine
Severe swelling
Palpitations or weakness (possible high potassium)

7. Treatment

TREATMENTS (GENERAL, THAT PROTECT KIDNEYS)

ACE inhibitors / ARBs
SGLT2 inhibitors
Statins

These reduce protein in urine, slow CKD progression, and protect the heart.

Treatment (Specific, by Cause)

GN → Immunosuppression
Obstruction → Relieve blockage
TIN → Stop offending drug +/- steroids
RVD → Cardiovascular risk management; ACE/ARBs/SGLT2is may need to be stopped
Diabetic nephropathy → Tight glucose control

8. LIFESTYLE TIPS

Keep blood pressure around 130/80
Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
Stop smoking
Stay active
Balanced diet
Potassium/phosphate advice if needed

Fluid: Drink normally unless your doctor advises otherwise.

9. MONITORING

Blood tests (eGFR, creatinine, potassium)
Urine ACR
Blood pressure

Frequency:

CKD1–2: every 6–12 months
CKD3: every 3–6 months
CKD4: every 2–3 months
CKD5: monthly

10. WHEN TO SEE A KIDNEY SPECIALIST

eGFR <30 ml/min
Rapid decline
High protein in urine
Unclear cause
Difficult‑to‑control blood pressure
Family history of kidney disease

KEY MESSAGE

CKD is common, often silent, and usually manageable. With early detection, regular monitoring, and heart‑healthy habits, most people live well for many years.

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