What should you know about effects of chronic kidney disease?

The kidneys remove waste and extra fluid, help regulate blood pressure, support red blood cell production and help keep minerals balanced. When kidney function declines, waste and fluid may build up and these supporting tasks may become less effective.

Some people have no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. As chronic kidney disease progresses, tiredness, reduced concentration, nausea, changes in urination, ankle swelling, muscle cramps or itchy skin may occur. Fatigue is a recognised effect of chronic kidney disease and may also be linked with anaemia; see the information on Fatigue and Anaemia for more detail.

Fluid retention can cause swelling and breathlessness. Kidney disease can also make blood pressure harder to control, while high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes are common conditions associated with kidney damage. Changes in mineral handling may weaken bones or contribute to muscle and bone discomfort. Waste build-up can affect appetite, sleep and thinking.

The condition may also alter uric-acid handling, which can contribute to gout, and can be associated with restless legs symptoms. Excessive thirst can occur when fluid regulation is disturbed, but thirst has many possible causes and does not by itself identify kidney disease.

Keep scheduled appointments so your clinician can review kidney blood tests, urine tests, blood pressure and medicines. Take prescribed treatment as directed, and check before using anti-inflammatory pain medicines, supplements or herbal products because some can strain the kidneys or interact with treatment.

Follow the eating, drinking and salt advice tailored to your kidney function and other conditions. Do not sharply restrict fluids or minerals on your own. Managing diabetes and hypertension, avoiding tobacco and staying physically active within your abilities can support overall health.

Contact your healthcare team promptly for a new or rapidly worsening swelling, a marked change in urine output, repeated vomiting, confusion, severe weakness or persistent itching. Seek urgent care for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, a seizure or sudden confusion.

A sudden change can reflect fluid, electrolyte or waste-balance problems and needs assessment. If you have known chronic kidney disease, ask which symptoms should trigger same-day advice and keep an up-to-date list of your medicines available.

Ask: What is my current kidney function and has it changed? Which effects should I watch for? Do my blood pressure, diabetes, blood count or mineral results need different treatment? Which pain medicines, supplements or foods should I avoid? What should I do if my urine, swelling or breathing changes?