Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease

Every day, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects the lives of people all over our region. In fact, 1 in 9 adult Americans will be diagnosed with CKD in their lifetime. Many people do not realize they have kidney disease until they are screened.

Kidney disease usually progresses over a period of years. If diagnosed early, medications, a healthy diet and appropriate exercise can help slow down progression of the disease.

Stages 1 & 2

People who have early stages of Chronic Kidney Disease sometimes do not exhibit any symptoms. Your physician might screen and diagnose you with kidney disease if you have high blood pressure or higher than normal levels of creatinine or urea in your blood. You might be diagnosed if an MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, or contrast X-ray shows evidence of kidney damage. Another indication of CKD is having blood or protein in your urine. Your doctor might perform a kidney screening if you have a family history of polycystic kidney disease.

Stage 3

People with Stage 3 CKD often have anemia, which is a shortage of red blood cells. Your body needs red blood cells to function well. A shortage can leave you lacking  energy and or feeling tired all day. Your doctor can treat this condition to help you feel better, and to help keep further issues from developing.

Stage 4

Chronic Kidney Disease patients with Stage 4 CKD will need dialysis or a kidney transplant. You will be referred to a physician who is a kidney specialist. This type of doctor is called a nephrologist. Your nephrologist will help you decide what the best treatment options are for your specific situation.

Stage 5

Stage 5 is chronic kidney failure. Chronic kidney failure (End-stage renal disease or ESRD) is a result of permanent destruction of normal kidney tissue.

As kidney function declines, waste products accumulate in the blood (uremia) and the body retains fluid (edema). If not treated, kidney failure will result in death, usually in less than three weeks. Your nephrologist will be able to advise you on possible treatment options.

Take our risk quiz to see if you are at increased risk of developing CKD. Talk to your physician about any concerns you might have.

For information on the Northwest Kidney Centers' free community kidney information and screening events, click here or call (206) 292-2771.