Kidney Health
Understanding how the kidneys work—and recognizing risks early—can support better conversations with your healthcare provider.
What is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Kidney disease means the kidneys have been damaged and are not working as well as they should. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) describes kidney function that gradually worsens over time.
High blood pressure and diabetes are two common causes of CKD. Other causes can include inflammation of the kidneys and inherited or genetic kidney conditions. Late-stage kidney disease may require dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Possible Signs to Discuss With a Healthcare Provider
Possible signs can include changes in urination, loss of appetite, tiredness or low energy, swelling in the hands, feet or ankles, and dry or itchy skin. Some people have few or no noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Symptoms can have many causes, so they should not be used to diagnose kidney disease yourself. If you are concerned about symptoms or risk factors, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
Kidney-Friendly Eating Is Individual
A kidney-friendly eating plan can look different from one person to another depending on kidney function, laboratory results, other medical conditions and treatment. Fresh foods and reducing highly processed foods may be helpful for many people, but restrictions involving sodium, potassium, phosphorus, protein or fluids should be personalized.
If you have kidney disease, ask your doctor or a renal dietitian for nutrition guidance that fits your medical needs.
Prevention & Management
Managing blood pressure and diabetes, attending recommended medical appointments, taking medicines as prescribed, avoiding tobacco, maintaining an appropriate level of physical activity, and discussing kidney tests such as eGFR and urine albumin with your healthcare provider can all be part of kidney-health care.
This website provides general education and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment or individualized advice.
Have a kidney-health support question?
BKA can respond with information about current Association resources and programs.