Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means the kidneys have had an abnormality of structure or function that persists over time and has implications for health. CKD is not one single experience: cause, stage, urine findings, other health conditions, medicines and risk of progression all matter.
What your kidneys do
Your kidneys filter wastes and extra fluid from the blood and help regulate minerals and other body functions. When kidney function is reduced, care focuses on understanding the cause, estimating risk, protecting kidney and cardiovascular health, and managing complications.
How CKD is evaluated
Two concepts appear repeatedly in CKD care: estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a blood-test-based estimate of kidney filtering function, and urine albumin testing, which can show kidney damage. A single number should be interpreted in context and with your healthcare team.
What to learn next
Start with CKD stages, then learn how eGFR works. If food is your immediate concern, read our kidney-friendly eating guide.