Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is an irreversible loss of kidney function that can lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and kidney failure. CKD is a silent disease and particularly dangerous because symptoms may not be noticeable until significant and irreparable damage has been done.
Right now, one in nine American Adults, more than 26 million people, have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Only 10% are aware they have the disease. Simple blood and urine tests can provide you with your GFR score and can help identify the level at which your kidneys are functioning and potentially slow the progression of kidney disease.
As CKD progresses, wastes build up to high levels in your blood and make you feel sick. Complications from CKD include high blood pressure, anemia, weak bones, poor nutritional health and nerve damage. In addition, CKD increase your risk of developing heart and blood vessel disease.
Kidney failure is the final stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Over 100,000 people are diagnosed with kidney failure annually in the United States. Treatment for kidney failure is dialysis, an artificial blood-cleaning process, or transplantation to receive a healthy kidney from a donor.
Recent research indicates that progression of Chronic Kidney Disease can be delayed if it is diagnosed early enough and properly treated. Please consult your physician if you have one or more of these early warning signs.
The three simple tests for detecting CKD include checking for the following:
- Creatinine in the blood
- Protein in the urine
- High blood pressure
For those at any stage of kidney disease, knowledge is power. Knowing the symptoms of kidney disease can help you get the treatment you need to feel your best. If you or someone you know are worried about kidney problems, see your doctor. Early detection is the key to slowing the progression of kidney disease.