What is my risk of kidney failure with CKD (chronic kidney disease) | UHL NHS Trust

What is My Risk of Kidney Failure with CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease)? | UHL NHS Trust

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work as well as they should. Over time, CKD can progress to more severe stages, potentially leading to kidney failure. It is important to understand how CKD is managed to reduce the risk of progression and complications.

Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease

CKD is classified into five stages based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which measures how well your kidneys are filtering blood: - Stage 1: Normal kidney function but with some signs of mild damage - Stage 2: Mildly reduced kidney function - Stage 3: Moderately reduced kidney function - Stage 4: Severely reduced kidney function - Stage 5: Kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD)

Risk Factors for Progression to Kidney Failure

Several factors can increase the risk of CKD progressing to kidney failure, including: - **Diabetes:** High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time. - **High Blood Pressure:** Uncontrolled hypertension can strain and damage the kidneys. - **Family History:** A family history of kidney disease can increase your risk. - **Age:** CKD risk increases with age, particularly after the age of 60. - **Ethnicity:** Certain ethnic groups, including people of South Asian, African, or Caribbean descent, have higher risks of CKD.

Managing CKD to Reduce Risk

You can take several steps to manage CKD and reduce the risk of kidney failure: - **Regular Monitoring:** Attend regular check-ups to monitor kidney function and manage CKD stages effectively. - **Healthy Diet:** Adopting a low-salt, low-fat diet can help manage underlying conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. - **Medication:** Take prescribed medications as directed to control blood pressure and blood sugar levels. - **Lifestyle Changes:** Engage in regular physical activity, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.

Support from UHL NHS Trust

The University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) provides various services to support individuals diagnosed with CKD. Clinics offer comprehensive care involving nephrologists, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals to help manage and slow the progression of CKD.

Conclusion

Understanding your risk of kidney failure with CKD is crucial for effective management and intervention. By addressing risk factors, adhering to medical advice, and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce the progression of CKD to kidney failure. The UHL NHS Trust is committed to providing the necessary support and resources for patients in the UK.