What is chronic kidney disease?

Your kidneys filter the blood in your body, removing waste products that can harm your organs. If your kidneys stop working as well as they could, your blood is not filtered properly and this can affect your health. There are many reasons this might happen.

Chronic kidney disease is when your kidneys are no longer working as they should and they are unlikely to improve. However, it is important to protect your kidneys from getting worse. If they do and your kidneys can no longer do their job, you may need dialysis or a transplant.

 

What will my GP do now if I have chronic kidney disease?

Your GP will develop a plan for your treatment which will involve:

  • Recommending changes to your lifestyle, such as diet and regular activity
  • Prescribing medication if necessary
  • Adjusting other medications you take if needed
  • Referring you to a specialist if necessary

If your condition is more serious or complicated, your GP will refer you to a kidney specialist (nephrologist).

 

What will my GP do in the future for my chronic kidney disease?

People with chronic kidney disease need to be monitored and treated for the rest of their lives so your GP will want to see you regularly.

At your follow-up visits your GP may:

  • Check your blood pressure
  • Do a kidney health check (usually blood and urine test)
  • Adjust medication if necessary
  • Check how you are going with changes to your lifestyle
  • Refer you to a specialist, if your kidney function worsens

 

What can I do if I have chronic kidney disease?

There are many things you can do to protect your kidneys from getting worse. including:

  • Keep GP appointments – even if you feel well; kidney disease is often ‘silent’, meaning you may not feel unwell even when your disease is getting worse
  • Stay active – regular exercise as directed by your GP
  • Eat a healthy diet – including plenty of fruit and vegetables, and a lower salt intake
  • Drink plenty of water – avoid sugary drinks and limit alcoholic drinks
  • Stop smoking – call the Quitline (13 7848) or ask your doctor for help with quitting
  • Have your blood pressure checked regularly – a pharmacist can also do this for you
  • Do things that help you relax – to help reduce your stress levels
  • Tell your doctor about any medicines you take – including those you buy from the supermarket, pharmacy or health-food store