What is CKD?

CKD is a common condition that is often underdiagnosed. In fact, an estimated 37 million Americans are living with CKD, yet 9 in 10 do not know they have it.

  • When someone has CKD, it means their kidneys are damaged and can’t filter blood the way they should. CKD is considered “chronic” because the loss of kidney function happens gradually over time and is irreversible. CKD is known as a “silent disease” because people don’t always experience symptoms in its early stages.
  • Many people don't know they have CKD until it is very advanced and they experience symptoms. That is why it is especially important to have conversations with your doctor about your kidney function and be aware of the risk factors, which can include diabetes and high blood pressure.
  • If you have CKD, you may also be at higher risk for other conditions, for example, cardiovascular disease or high potassium, also referred to as hyperkalemia. High potassium is when there is too much potassium in your blood and is a condition commonly associated with CKD.

Understanding Your eGFR & Managing CKD

CKD is measured as Stages 1 through 5. The stages are determined by a calculation called eGFR, or estimated glomerular filtration rate, which is a measure of how well your kidneys are filtering excess waste, fluid and minerals from the body. You can find out what your eGFR number is through a simple blood test. As CKD gets worse, your eGFR number will go down. A normal eGFR is 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or more. If your eGFR is less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 for three months or more, this
may mean you have CKD. Talk with your doctor about your kidney health. 

 

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Early intervention is important. Talk to your doctor to better understand your eGFR number and how to use your lab work to best manage and keep track of your kidney health.

Early intervention is important. Talk to your doctor to better understand your eGFR number and how to use your
lab work to best manage
and keep track of your
kidney health.

If you have CKD Stage 3a, 3b or 4, there are options available to help slow disease progression before reaching dialysis.

LEARN ABOUT A TREATMENT OPTION FOR CKD PATIENTS