Kidney and Dialysis
Awareness
What is Chronic Kidney Disease ( CKD )
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to
filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. It develops slowly and is often caused by diabetes, high blood
pressure, or kidney infections. Early stages may show no symptoms, but as the disease progresses, patients
may experience fatigue, swelling, high blood pressure, nausea, and loss of appetite. CKD is classified into
five stages based on kidney function, with Stage 5 requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. While CKD
cannot be cured, early detection, proper medication, a healthy diet, and lifestyle changes can help slow its
progression and improve quality of life.
STAGE 1
Normal function (GFR ≥ 90
mL/min) with mild kidney damage, no symptoms. Manage underlying
conditions to prevent progression. Early detection is key.
STAGE 4
Severe damage (GFR 15-29 mL/min), symptoms worsen with nausea,
swelling, and bone pain. Patients should prepare for dialysis or transplant while
managing complications.
STAGE 2
Mild decrease in function (GFR 60-89 mL/min), possible protein in urine,
usually no symptoms. Lifestyle changes and regular check-ups recommended to protect kidney health.
STAGE 5
End stage renal disease (ESRD)
Kidney failure (GFR < 15 mL/min), severe symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and fluid overload. Dialysis or kidney transplant is necessary to sustain life.
STAGE 3
Moderate damage
(GFR 30-59 mL/min) with symptoms like fatigue, swelling, and high blood pressure. Medications, diet adjustments, and regular monitoring are needed.
Kidney and Dialysis
Prevention
CKD Prevention Tips
Healthy Lifestyle
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Eat a balanced diet
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( low salt, low fat, and low sugar )
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Stay Hydrated
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( 6 - 8 glasses of water daily )
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Maintain a healthy weight
Regular Check - ups
Annual kidney function test
( especially for those with diabetes, hypertension, or family history of kidney disease )
Control Health Conditions
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Manage blood pressure
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( target: ≤130 / 80 mmHg)​
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Keep blood sugar levels under control if diabetic
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Regularly check cholesterol levels
Avoid Harmful Habits
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Quit smoking​
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Limit alcohol intake
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Avoid excessive us of painkillers
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( NASAIDs like ibuprofen )
Kidney and Dialysis
Treatment
CKD 5 Treatment
Hemodialysis
Peritonial Dialysis
Kidney Transplant
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Filters blood using a machine
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Done 3 - 4 times a week i a dialysis center or at home
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Requires surgery to create a vascular access ( AV fistula or graft )
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Common side effects: Fatigue, low blood pressure, muscle cramps
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Uses the lining of the abdomen ( peritoneum ) to filter blood
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Can be done at home daily ( CAPD or APD )
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Requires a catheter placed in the abdomen
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Common side effects: Infection ( Peritonitis ) , bloating
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Best option for long - term survival
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A healthy kidney is placed from a living deceased donor
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Requires lifelong medication to prevent rejection