Chronic Kidney Disease Stages: Early Signs To Spot And How To Protect Your Kidneys

Has your doctor mentioned kidney problems recently? Or maybe you're just a bit worried and want to understand what's going on. You're in the right place. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) often creeps in slowly, without making a fuss - but spotting the early signs can make a huge difference. We'll walk you through the five stages, what to look out for, and simple ways to keep your kidneys happy.

What are the 5 stages of Chronic Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease is broken down into five stages, depending on how well your kidneys are doing their job - mainly filtering out waste and extra fluid. This is measured with something called the GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate).

The lower your GFR number, the more your kidneys are struggling. But the good news is: the earlier you know, the more you can do.

5 Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease

Stage 1: Minimal Kidney Damage ( GFR over 90)

Your kidneys are still doing well, but there may be tiny signs of strain - like protein showing up in your wee or very mild structural changes.

What to look for:

• High blood pressure

• Traces of protein in your urine (you won't notice, but a test might)

How to be kind to your kidneys:

• Stick to a balanced, low-salt diet

• Drink plenty of water

• Keep blood pressure and blood sugar in check

• Pop in for regular check-ups with your GP

It's all about the little steps - they really do add up over time.

Stage 2: Mild Kidney Damage (GFR 60-89)

Your kidney function has dipped slightly, but you might still feel completely fine.

What might show up:

• No symptoms most of the time

• Slight drop in GFR

• Raised blood pressure

What you can do:

• Limit salt, processed foods, red meat, and high-phosphorus foods like bananas and dairy products. For drink choices, read our guide on hydration and renal-friendly drinks.

• Move your body every day - even a short walk helps

• Keep an eye on any long-term conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure

• Notice if your loo habits change

Stage 3: Moderate Kidney Damage (GFR 30-59)

This is where things start to become more noticeable - and often the point where people realise something's going on.

You might notice:

• Feeling more tired than usual

• Swelling in hands, feet, or ankles

• Back pain

• Needing to wee more at night

Helpful habits:

• Eat a kidney-friendly diet (less salt, potassium, and phosphorus)

• Ditch frizzy drinks and salty snacks

• Keep tabs on cholesterol and blood pressure

• Keep up with GP check-ins

Need dry wipes or dialysis-friendly supplies? We pop them in your first delivery when you register - just ask.

Stage 4: Severe Kidney Damage (GFR 15-29)

Your kidneys are working much harder to keep things balanced, and you may need to start thinking about treatment options soon.

Symptoms can include:

• Feeling sick or not hungry

• Puffy legs or face

• Trouble focussing

• Pee looks darker or there's less of it

What helps:

• Get support from a kidney specialist (nephrologist)

• Plan your meals with a dietician

• Be mindful of how much fluid you're drinking

• If you're travelling for treatment, ask us for a travel certificate or urgent toilet card - they're free with your prescription

Stage 5: Kidney Failure (GFR below 15)

This is when your kidneys can no longer keep up on their own. You'll likely need dialysis or a transplant to stay well.

What it can feel like:

Breathlessness or swelling from fluid build-up

Feeling very tired, sick, or confused

Peeing less than usual

Next steps:

• Chat to your kidney team about dialysis or transplant options

• Stick closely to your care plan

• Let us know if you need extra bits for comfort - we include wipes, hand sanitiser, and a handy wash bag in your welcome pack

We're here to make life a bit easier - starting with your first free delivery.

When should I speak to a doctor?

• Don't wait for symptoms to get worse. If you spot any of the following, book a check-up:

• Swollen legs, feet, or puffy eyes

• Tiredness that doesn't shift

• Peeing more or less than usual

• Trouble sleeping or unexplained weight loss

How can I prevent Kidney Disease?

Here are a few simple ways to give your kidneys a helping hand:

• Control your blood pressure and diabetes

• Drink enough water - aim for 6-8 glasses a day

• Eat well - go easy on salt, sugar, and processed food

• Move more - anything is better than nothing

• Stop smoking and cut down on alcohol

• Use painkillers carefully - too many NSAIDs can hurt your kidneys over time.

What matters most

The earlier you catch CKD, the more control you have. With the right support, day-to-day changes, and good medical advice, you can manage it well.

At Rapidcare, we're all about making things simple. Our free NHS prescription service is quick, stress-free, and includes extras like toilet cards, dry wipes, and travel certificates to make life easier.

Ready to get started? Fill in our short contact us form - it's quick, easy, and free.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Chronic Kidney Disease

1. What is the life expectancy of someone with chronic kidney disease?

Life expectancy varies by stage and overall health, but with early diagnosis and proper management, many people live for years or decades with CKD.

2. What foods should you avoid if you have CKD?

Limit salt, processed foods, red meat, and high-phosphorus foods like bananas and dairy products.

3. What happens if you get diagnosed with kidney disease?

You'll likely undergo regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, and treatment to slow disease progression and protect kidney function.

4. Can you stop chronic kidney disease from progressing?

While CKD can't be reversed, early intervention with diet, medications, and blood pressure control can significantly slow its progression.

5. How long does it take to go from stage 3 to stage 4 kidney disease?

Progression varies widely; it may take several years, especially with good management and lifestyle changes.