If you have a CKD risk factor, ask your doctor for three simple tests:
· Blood pressure check.
· Test for protein in your urine.
· Blood test for creatinine, a waste product normally removed by healthy kidneys. This test is used to calculate eGFR a number that measures how well your kidneys are filtering and what stage your CKD has reached. If you are at risk for CKD, ask your doctor for your eGFR.
More about eGFR
To calculate your own eGFR (if you know your creatinine number), click here.
You can feel fine and still have CKD. Often, there are no noticeable symptoms until the kidneys are very damaged. Getting tested before you feel sick means CKD can be treated early. If you do have symptoms, they can include:
· Swelling in your feet, legs, or around your eyes
· High blood pressure
· Itching
· Bad taste in your mouth
· Nausea
· Poor appetite
· Changes in urination or blood in urine
· Pain in your side or back
· Tiredness
· Sleep problems
· Trouble concentrating
· Or nothing at all!
