CKD can range from a mild condition with no or few symptoms, to a very serious condition where the kidneys stop working (kidney failure).
Most people with CKD will be able to control their condition with medication and regular check-ups. CKD only progresses to kidney failure in around 1 in 50 people with the condition.
Signs & Symptoms of Stage 1 CKD
- Higher than normal levels of creatinine or urea in the blood
- Blood or protein in the urine
- Evidence of kidney damage through a MRI, CT scan, ultrasound or x-ray
- A family history of kidney disease, such as Polycystic kidney disease
Signs & Symptoms of Stage 2 CKD
- Higher than normal levels of creatinine or urea in the blood
- Blood or protein in the urine
- Evidence of kidney damage through a MRI, CT scan, ultrasound or x-ray
- A family history of kidney disease, such as polycystic kidney disease
Signs & Symptoms of Stage 3 CKD
- Fatigue
- Oedema (fluid retention)
- Muscle cramps or restless legs
- Urine changes, colour change due to the presence of blood
- Loss of appetite
- Skin changes; itching sensation, dry and flaking skin
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Back pain
Signs & Symptoms of Stage 4 CKD
- Fatigue
- Sleep problems, restless legs, muscle cramps
- Oedema (fluid retention)
- Kidney pain felt in the back
- Urine changes, colour change due to the presence of blood
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Changes in taste, metallic taste in the mouth
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Skin changes; itching sensation, dry and flaking skin
- Nerve problems, numbness in extremities
Signs & Symptoms of Stage 5 CKD
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Being tired
- Being unable to concentrate
- Itching
- Making little or no urine
- Swelling, especially around the eyes and ankles
- Muscle cramps
- Tingling in hands or feet
- Changes in skin color
- Increased skin pigmentation