If you have chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease means the kidneys have reduced or abnormal function over time. The kidneys help remove waste, balance fluid and salts, and support red blood cell production. Some people have few symptoms, so blood and urine checks are useful even when you feel well.

As kidney function changes, fatigue, excessive thirst, swelling, changes in urination, itching or restless legs may occur. Anaemia, gout and hypertension can be associated problems; type 2 diabetes is also a common condition that can affect kidney health.

Attend planned blood and urine checks and take medicines exactly as prescribed. Ask before using anti-inflammatory pain medicines, supplements or herbal products, because some can stress the kidneys or alter treatment. Follow the eating, fluid and salt advice tailored to your kidney function rather than copying a generic diet.

Keep blood pressure and blood glucose within the targets set for you. Bring an updated medicine list to appointments and tell clinicians about vomiting, diarrhoea or reduced drinking, which can increase the risk of dehydration.

Contact your care team promptly for much less urine, new swelling, persistent vomiting, breathlessness, chest discomfort, confusion or sudden severe weakness. Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness, chest pain, collapse or confusion. These symptoms can reflect fluid, electrolyte or kidney-function problems.

Ask what your latest kidney blood test and urine findings mean, which medicines need dose changes, how much fluid is suitable, and which symptoms should trigger a same-day call. Ask whether you need assessment for anaemia, gout or hypertension.