# Chronic Kidney Disease: Early Signs, Tests and How to Protect Your Kidneys

- Link: https://nohas.es/chronic-kidney-disease-early-signs-tests-and-care/
- Published: 2026-10-28T09:00:00+00:00
- Author: nohas.es Editorial Team

_Educational information, not medical advice. See our [Medical Disclaimer](https://nohas.es/disclaimer/).
Last updated: October 25, 2026._

![Anatomical kidney model used to illustrate kidney health](https://nohas.es/wp-
content/uploads/2026/10/Chronic-kidney-disease-medical-article-photograph.jpg)

Your kidneys work quietly every day, filtering waste and extra fluid from your blood.
Because they often keep working even when damaged, chronic kidney disease (CKD) 
can develop without obvious warning signs. Understanding your risk factors and attending
recommended checks can help you get support early.

![Medical illustration showing the kidneys](https://nohas.es/wp-content/uploads/
2026/10/Kidney-health-illustration.jpg)

## What is chronic kidney disease?

CKD is a long-term condition in which the kidneys do not work as well as they should.
It can range from mild changes in kidney function to severe disease. Many people
with CKD continue to live well for years, particularly when the condition is monitored
and contributing health problems are treated.

## What are the early symptoms?

In its early stages, CKD often causes no symptoms. It may first be noticed during
routine blood or urine tests. Later symptoms can include persistent tiredness, swollen
ankles or feet, shortness of breath, nausea, itchy skin, blood in the urine or needing
to urinate more often at night. These symptoms can have many causes, so they cannot
confirm kidney disease on their own.

## Who may be at higher risk?

High blood pressure and diabetes are important risk factors. Risk can also be increased
by cardiovascular disease, previous acute kidney injury, certain inherited conditions,
a family history of advanced kidney disease, or ongoing use of medicines that may
affect the kidneys. Do not stop prescribed medicines yourself; ask a clinician or
pharmacist if you are concerned.

## Which tests are used?

 * **Blood test:** measures creatinine, which is used to calculate estimated glomerular
   filtration rate (eGFR).
 * **Urine test:** checks for albumin (a type of protein) and sometimes blood. The
   albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) helps assess kidney damage.
 * **Further investigations:** an ultrasound or other tests may be recommended depending
   on the results and suspected cause.

A single abnormal result does not always mean you have CKD. Your healthcare professional
will interpret it alongside previous results, symptoms and medical history, and 
may repeat tests to see whether changes persist.

## How can you help protect your kidneys?

 * Keep blood pressure and blood glucose within the targets agreed with your healthcare
   professional.
 * Take prescribed medicines as directed and attend monitoring appointments.
 * Choose a balanced diet, stay physically active and avoid smoking.
 * Ask before using painkillers or supplements regularly, particularly if you already
   have kidney problems.
 * Drink enough fluids for your needs; people with advanced kidney or heart conditions
   may have individual fluid advice.

## When should you seek medical advice?

Arrange a medical review if you have persistent symptoms, have been told your blood
or urine tests are abnormal, or have diabetes or high blood pressure and are unsure
whether your kidney function is being monitored. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness,
confusion, or a sudden major reduction in urine output.

## Key takeaway

CKD may not cause noticeable symptoms at first, which is why risk-based testing 
matters. Blood and urine tests can help identify changes early, and a personalised
care plan can help protect kidney function over time.

## Trusted sources

 * [NHS: Chronic kidney disease](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/)
 * [NHS: Diagnosing chronic kidney disease](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/diagnosis/)
 * [NHS: Symptoms of chronic kidney disease](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/symptoms/)

_Medical note: This article is for general information and is not a substitute for
personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Speak to a qualified healthcare
professional about your own symptoms or test results._

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