What should you know about chronic kidney disease age?

Kidney function can change gradually over the years, while conditions such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes can damage the small blood vessels and filtering units of the kidneys. Older age alone does not establish chronic kidney disease. Clinicians look at blood and urine tests over time, blood pressure, medicines, previous illnesses and symptoms. Early disease may cause no noticeable symptoms; fatigue, excessive thirst, swelling or changes in urination can have many explanations and should not be used to diagnose kidney disease by themselves.

Ask your clinician whether kidney checks are appropriate, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease or regular exposure to medicines that may affect the kidneys. Keep an accurate medicine list, including non-prescription pain medicines and supplements. Do not change prescribed treatment or restrict fluids without advice. Managing blood pressure and blood glucose, avoiding smoking and attending follow-up can help protect remaining kidney function.

Seek prompt medical advice for new swelling, markedly reduced urination, blood in the urine, persistent vomiting, worsening breathlessness or unusual confusion. Sudden severe breathlessness, chest pain, collapse or inability to pass urine needs urgent emergency care. Arrange review for persistent fatigue or thirst rather than attributing these symptoms to age.

Ask which blood and urine results show kidney function, whether your results are stable, which medicines need review, and how often blood pressure and kidney tests should be repeated.