Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means that your kidneys are damaged and cannot filter the blood properly. The disease is called "chronic" because the damage to your kidneys happens gradually over a long period of time. This damage can cause waste to build up in your body. SBK can also cause other health problems.
The main job of the kidneys is to filter extra water and waste from your blood to make urine. The kidneys balance salts and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, sodium and potassium circulating in the blood in order for the body to function properly. Your kidneys also make hormones that help control blood pressure, produce red blood cells, and keep your bones strong.
Kidney disease often gets worse over time and can lead to kidney failure. If your kidneys fail, you'll need dialysis or a kidney transplant to keep you healthy.
The sooner you know you have kidney disease, the sooner you can make changes to protect your kidneys.
