Common symptoms
- Often none early
- Foot or facial swelling
- Urine changes
- Nausea, itching or fatigue
- Breathlessness with fluid retention
Risk factors
- Diabetes and hypertension
- Previous kidney injury
- Frequent painkiller use
- Stones, infection or obstruction
- Heart disease and age
When to consult a doctor
- Creatinine, eGFR, urine protein or electrolytes are abnormal
- Swelling or urine changes develop
- Diabetes or BP needs kidney monitoring
- Medicine doses may need adjustment
How the condition is assessed
Current and previous results are compared alongside hydration, medicines, BP, diabetes and urinary symptoms to determine whether change is acute, chronic or urgent.
Possible investigations
- Creatinine, eGFR and electrolytes
- Urine routine and albumin/protein
- BP and glucose assessment
- Ultrasound when structural disease is suspected
Tests are selected according to symptoms, examination and individual risk. Not every person needs every investigation listed.
General treatment approach
Treatment addresses the cause, protects remaining function and adjusts medicines. Rapid decline, significant protein loss or advanced disease needs nephrology input.
Lifestyle considerations
- Avoid unadvised painkillers and supplements
- Control diabetes and BP
- Follow individual salt, fluid and protein advice
- Review medicines after function changes
Warning signs requiring urgent care
- Very low urine output
- Severe breathlessness or rapid swelling
- Confusion or persistent vomiting
- Blood in urine with severe pain or fever
If a warning sign is present, do not wait for a routine appointment. Seek urgent assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Does one high creatinine mean CKD?+
No. The trend and clinical context distinguish acute from chronic change.
Does every abnormal test need nephrology?+
No, but some levels and patterns need early referral.
