Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter natural waste and excess fluids from the blood. This decline happens over months or years, often going unnoticed until advanced stages.
⚡ Quick Facts
- 📉Progressive loss of function over time.
- 🩸Diabetes & High BP are top risk factors.
- 🩺Early detection can slow progression.
- 🌿Holistic care focuses on preservation.
What causes Chronic Kidney Disease?
Healthy kidneys act as the body's filtration system. When they are damaged, waste products and fluid build up in the body, leading to swelling, nausea, and weakness. CKD is often a result of other health conditions that strain the kidneys over time.
The two most common causes are Diabetes and High Blood Pressure, which together account for majority of cases. Other causes include glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filtering units), interstitial nephritis, polycystic kidney disease, prolonged obstruction of the urinary tract, and recurrent kidney infections.
What are the symptoms of CKD?
CKD is often called a "silent disease" because noticeable symptoms may not appear until the kidneys are significantly damaged. As the disease advances, you might experience:
- Fatigue and weakness due to anemia or waste buildup.
- Swelling (Edema) in feet, ankles, or hands relative to fluid retention.
- Changes in urination, such as urinating more or less than usual, or foamy urine.
- Dry, itchy skin caused by mineral and bone disease.
- High blood pressure (Hypertension).
- Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting.
How is CKD Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves blood and urine tests. The Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) blood test estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. A GFR below 60 for three months or more indicates CKD. Urine tests check for albumin, a protein that shouldn't be in urine if kidneys are healthy.
Management and Supportive Care
While advanced CKD damage is often irreversible, early management focuses on slowing progression. This includes controlling blood pressure, managing blood sugar levels, monitoring diet (less salt and protein), and avoiding medications that can harm kidneys (like NSAIDs).
Holistic & Ayurvedic Perspective: At Atharv Veda, we focus on supportive care that aims to balance bodily energies and support ongoing kidney function. Our approach involves personalized dietary guidance, lifestyle modifications, and the use of herbal formulations traditionally believed to support renal health.
🚨 When to See a Doctor
Immediate medical attention is crucial if you experience sudden and severe symptoms. Consult a nephrologist if you have:
- Persistent, unexplained high blood pressure.
- Frequent difficult or painful urination.
- Blood in your urine.
- Significant swelling in legs or face.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns.
Last reviewed: February 11, 2026 by Dr. Rahul Sharma, B.A.M.S., M.D.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Rahul Sharma
B.A.M.S., M.D. (Ayurveda)
Expert in Ayurvedic Nephrology and Chronic Disease Management with over 15 years of clinical experience.
View Full Profile →References & Medical Citations
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). "Chronic Kidney Disease Tests & Diagnosis." Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov
- National Kidney Foundation. "Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)." Available at: https://www.kidney.org
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States." Available at: https://www.cdc.gov
- PubMed. "Integrative Medicine and the Kidney." Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
