Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is long-term damage to the kidneys that reduces how well they filter waste from the blood. In Nigeria the main causes are high blood pressure, diabetes and chronic glomerulonephritis, with herbal remedies, overuse of painkillers and sickle cell disease adding to the burden. CKD causes almost no symptoms until most kidney function is lost, which is why many people first learn they have it when they already need dialysis. Found early, its progress can often be slowed considerably.
Find a Nephrology SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms in the early stages
- Swelling of the legs, ankles or face
- Foamy urine (a sign of protein)
- Passing more urine at night, or less urine than usual
- Tiredness, poor appetite, nausea and vomiting (later stages)
- Itching, breathlessness and muscle cramps
- High blood pressure that is hard to control
When to See a Doctor
If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, sickle cell disease or a family history of kidney disease, or are over 50, ask for a yearly blood creatinine (eGFR) and urine protein test. See a physician or nephrologist if your eGFR is reduced or protein is found. Go to hospital urgently if you are passing very little urine, are very breathless or confused, or have severe vomiting.
Treatment options
- Tight blood pressure control, often with ACE inhibitors or ARBs, which also protect the kidney
- Good blood sugar control in diabetes
- SGLT2 inhibitor medicines, which slow CKD in many patients
- Avoiding medicines and remedies that harm the kidney, including anti-inflammatory painkillers and herbal mixtures
- Diet advice on salt, protein and potassium
- Treatment of anaemia and bone problems
- Dialysis or a kidney transplant for kidney failure
Common Questions
Can damaged kidneys recover?
Sudden (acute) kidney injury often recovers. Chronic kidney disease does not usually reverse, but with treatment its progress can be slowed greatly, and many people never need dialysis.
Do herbal remedies harm the kidneys?
Some do. Several herbal mixtures and 'bitters' sold in Nigeria have been linked to kidney damage, and their contents are not tested. Anyone with kidney disease should tell their doctor about every remedy they take.
Does drinking a lot of water cure kidney disease?
No. Enough fluid is important, but drinking large amounts does not repair kidney damage, and in advanced CKD too much fluid can be harmful. Follow the fluid advice your doctor gives you.
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