Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, is a condition in which there is lasting damage to the kidneys that leads to a gradual loss of kidney function. Your kidneys function as filters for your body by removing wastes and excess fluid from your bloodstream. The waste products and fluid are then excreted in your urine. When your kidneys are damaged, they become less effective at filtering and the wastes and fluids build up in your body, causing complications.
Two-thirds of CKD cases are caused by either diabetes or hypertension (high blood pressure). Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can cause kidney damage because of the high levels of glucose in the blood of a diabetic individual.
Glucose damages the filtration units over time, leading to chronic kidney disease, and even kidney failure. Other conditions that affect kidney health and can lead to CKD include: Glomerulonephritis – a group of diseases that cause inflammation and damage in the kidneys, Polycystic kidney disease, Interstitial nephritis, Chronic or recurrent kidney infection (pyelonephritis), Malformations during fetal development, Lupus and other diseases affecting the immune system, Obstructive problems, such as kidney stones, tumors, or enlarged prostate.
In addition, certain groups of people are also at a higher risk of developing CKD, such as those with diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. Other at-risk groups include seniors (over 60 years old), smokers, as well as those who are obese. Having a family history of kidney disease can also increase your risk