If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney failure, you may be at risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD).
What is CKD?
CKD is a disease that develops when your kidneys are damaged and can no longer properly filter blood. The damage happens slowly and can cause waste to build up in your body. This buildup could cause other health problems if it is untreated.
What is my risk?
Your chances of developing CKD can increase over time and with age. The longer you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, the more likely you are to develop kidney damage. In addition, American Indians, African Americans, and Hispanics have a higher chance of developing CKD due to the higher rates of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease in these groups.
What are the symptoms?
In the early stages of CKD, there are very few symptoms. In fact, most people who develop CKD experience no symptoms and feel healthy. This is because the kidneys have a higher capacity to do their job than what is needed to keep you healthy. You may already have CKD without knowing it,
What should I do if I’m at risk?
Doctors use blood and urine tests to diagnose CKD. If you think you’re at risk, talk to your doctor today about getting tested.
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