Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease Explained

Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease Explained: A Simple Guide to Understanding Your Kidney Health

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progresses slowly and quietly, often without obvious symptoms in the early stages. Understanding the stages of CKD helps you take timely action, manage risks, and protect your long-term health. If you’re searching for clear information on kidney health, CKD stages, or kidney function levels, this guide breaks everything down in a simple, reader-friendly way.

🔍 What Are CKD Stages?

The progression of Chronic Kidney Disease is measured using the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). This number shows how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood.
Doctors classify CKD into five stages, from mild kidney damage to severe kidney failure.

Understanding which stage you’re in helps determine the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and preventive steps.

🧪 Stage 1: Mild Kidney Damage (eGFR ≥ 90)

Kidney function is normal, but there may be early signs of damage such as:

Protein or blood in urine

Slight swelling

High blood pressure

What to do:
Adopt a healthy lifestyle, stay hydrated, and monitor kidney function regularly.

🧪 Stage 2: Mild Loss of Kidney Function (eGFR 60–89)

Kidney function is slightly reduced, but symptoms may still be absent.
Most people don’t realise they have CKD at this stage.

What to do:

Maintain a balanced diet

Control blood sugar and blood pressure

Start preventive care to slow disease progression

🧪 Stage 3: Moderate Kidney Damage (eGFR 30–59)

This is often when symptoms begin to appear. You may experience:

Fatigue

Swelling in hands or feet

Back pain

Changes in urination

Stage 3 is divided into:

3A: eGFR 45–59

3B: eGFR 30–44

What to do:
Work with a doctor to manage complications like anaemia or bone health issues. Adjust your diet and limit salt, phosphorus, and potassium.

🧪 Stage 4: Severe Kidney Damage (eGFR 15–29)

Kidneys are significantly reduced in function.

Symptoms often include:

Persistent swelling

Nausea or vomiting

Trouble concentrating

Shortness of breath

What to do:
This is a crucial stage to prepare for future treatments such as dialysis or transplant. Strict lifestyle and diet management is essential.

🧪 Stage 5: Kidney Failure (eGFR < 15)

Also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The kidneys can no longer support normal body function.

Symptoms may include:

Extreme fatigue

Fluid retention

Loss of appetite

Breathing difficulties

What to do:
Patients will require dialysis or a kidney transplant for survival.

🛡️ Why Understanding CKD Stages Matters

Recognising the stage of CKD helps:

Slow disease progression

Manage symptoms effectively

Avoid complications

Improve long-term quality of life

Early detection and consistent monitoring are key to protecting your kidney health.

🌿 How Nizcare Supports Your Kidney Wellness Journey

Nizcare is a trusted digital wellness platform that connects individuals, corporates, and healthcare providers in one seamless ecosystem. While Nizcare is not a hospital or clinic, it plays a valuable role in supporting kidney health through:

Personalised guidance

Preventive health and wellness programs

Access to reliable healthcare providers

Corporate health dashboards and awareness initiatives

Whether you're managing CKD or simply want to stay proactive about kidney health, Nizcare empowers you with the right tools, resources, and support to make informed choices.

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