Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood. It is estimated to affect around 1 in 10 people in the UK, though many are unaware they have it because early-stage CKD often causes no symptoms.
The most common causes are diabetes and high blood pressure, which together account for the majority of cases. Other risk factors include a family history of kidney disease, being over 60 and certain ethnic backgrounds.
As kidney function declines, symptoms may include:
- Tiredness and difficulty concentrating
- Swollen ankles, feet or hands
- Shortness of breath
- Blood or protein in the urine
Kidney function is assessed using blood tests for creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), alongside urine tests for albumin. Early detection and management can significantly slow progression and reduce the risk of complications including cardiovascular disease.
Causes of Chronic kidney disease
The two most common causes of chronic kidney disease are:
- Diabetes (both type 1 and type 2), which can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys over time. This is known as diabetic nephropathy and is the single largest cause of CKD in the UK
- High blood pressure (hypertension), which places sustained strain on the delicate filtering units of the kidneys and gradually reduces their function
Other causes include:
- Glomerulonephritis, a group of conditions causing inflammation of the kidney's filtering units
- Polycystic kidney disease, an inherited condition in which cysts develop in the kidneys
- Recurrent kidney infections (pyelonephritis)
- Long-term use of certain medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some antibiotics
- Obstruction of urine flow, for example from kidney stones or an enlarged prostate
Age is also a significant factor. Kidney function naturally declines with age, and CKD becomes more prevalent in people over 60. People of African, Caribbean and South Asian descent are at higher risk.
Tests that can help check this condition
Learn more on the official NHS page .
