Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function over time. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, regulating electrolyte balance, and producing hormones that control blood pressure and red blood cell production. CKD can progress slowly and may lead to kidney failure if not properly managed. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and types is essential for early detection and effective treatment.

Symptoms:

1. Fatigue: Persistent fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of CKD, often related to anemia.
2. Fluid Retention: Swelling, particularly in the legs, ankles, or face, can occur due to the kidneys’ reduced ability to eliminate excess fluid.
3. Changes in Urination: Changes in the frequency and volume of urine, foamy urine, or difficulty urinating can be signs of CKD.
4. Blood in Urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, may indicate kidney damage.
5. Increased Blood Pressure: CKD can contribute to elevated blood pressure, further impacting kidney function.
6. Decreased Appetite: Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss may occur.
7. Sleep Problems: Individuals with CKD may experience sleep disturbances.
8. Itching and Dry Skin: Buildup of waste products in the blood can lead to skin problems like itching and dryness.

Causes:

1. Diabetes: Diabetes is a leading cause of CKD. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys.
2. Hypertension: Persistent high blood pressure can strain the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to damage over time.
3. Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units, called glomeruli, can result in CKD.
4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder where fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys, causing damage.
5. Infections: Recurrent kidney infections or long-term urinary tract infections can contribute to CKD.
6. Obstruction: Blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate, can lead to CKD.
7. Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus and autoimmune vasculitis can cause inflammation and damage to the kidneys.
8. Certain Medications: Long-term use of certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antibiotics, can contribute to CKD.

Types:

1. Stage 1-5 CKD: CKD is classified into stages based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a measure of kidney function. Stages range from mild (Stage 1) to severe (Stage 5), which is kidney failure.
2. Diabetic Nephropathy: CKD specifically caused by diabetes, characterized by damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys.
3. Hypertensive Nephropathy: Kidney damage resulting from long-term high blood pressure.
4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Inherited condition where fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys, leading to kidney damage over time.
5. Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli, affecting their filtering function and causing CKD.