(CKD) – What you need to know
What is chronic kidney disease?
- Your kidneys act like filters – they clean your blood, get rid of waste and extra water, and help control blood pressure.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) means your kidneys aren’t working as well as they used to, and this has been the case for a while (3 months or more).
- Most people with mild CKD (stage 2 or 3) feel well and don’t notice symptoms.
What causes CKD?
- High blood pressure and diabetes are the most common causes.
- Other causes include:
- Heart disease
- Certain medicines (e.g. long-term use of ibuprofen or naproxen)
- Repeated kidney infections
- Some inherited (family) conditions.
How do we test for CKD?
- Blood tests – check how well your kidneys filter waste (measured as eGFR).
- Urine tests – check for protein in the urine (urine ACR).
- Blood pressure checks – because high BP can damage kidneys.
These tests are repeated regularly to watch for changes.
How is CKD treated?
There’s no cure, but you can keep kidneys healthy and stop things getting worse:
- Keep your blood pressure healthy – medicines may help.
- Control blood sugar if you have diabetes.
- Avoid too much salt – it raises blood pressure.
- Stay active and maintain a healthy weight.
- Don’t smoke – it harms your kidneys and heart.
- Check with your GP or pharmacist before taking antiinflammatory painkillers (ibuprofen, naproxen) – these can damage kidneys if used long term.
⚠️ What to avoid or be cautious about
- Overthecounter painkillers: Ibuprofen, naproxen and similar drugs can harm your kidneys – only use them if your GP says it’s safe.
- Dehydration: Don’t let yourself get very thirsty, especially in hot weather or if you’re ill – drink water regularly.
- Salt: Too much salt raises blood pressure and puts strain on your kidneys – avoid adding extra salt to meals.
- Supplements: Some herbal or vitamin supplements can be unsafe for kidneys – always check with your GP or pharmacist first.
- Contrast dye for scans: If you need a hospital scan, tell staff you have CKD – some types of scan dye can affect kidney function.
What’s the outlook?
- Most people with stage 2 or 3 CKD stay well and never need further treatment.
- Regular checks mean we can spot any changes early and take action to protect your kidneys.
Your next steps
✅ Birthday MOT: Book an HCA appointment for blood pressure, weight, blood tests and a urine ACR in your month of birth.
✅ Questions?: Book a routine GP appointment if you want to talk more about your kidney health or results.
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