According to the National Kidney Foundation, chronic renal or lidney disease, or CKD, is a progressive disease that causes damage to the kidneys over time. CKD consists of five progressive stages that are determined by glomerular filtration fate (GFR). If caught early, CKD can be treated to delay the advancement and prolong the onset of dialysis or other complications such as cardiovascular disease or loss of kidney function.
Stage I
The Renal Association defines stage I CKD as a GFR of 90 ml/min or more. Stage I, however, also must have another characteristic present such as abnormal urine findings or genetic predisposition to kidney disease. Blood pressure control through medication and diet are the main treatment for this stage; slowing the progression is of great importance.
Stage II
Once the disease progresses, the GFR may decrease to 60 to 89 ml/min indicating stage II CKD, according to the Renal Association. Stage II is characterized by a mild reduction in kidney function. Treatment includes control of blood pressure and avoiding progression of the disease.
Stage III
Stage III, a moderate reduction in kidney function, is characterized by a GFR of 44 to 59 ml/min, according to the Renal Association. Treatment includes the reduction in risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke by changing lifestyle and medication regimens. Also, early bone disease or a decrease in red blood cells or anemia, may begin to present in stage III and need to be treated immediately.
Stage IV
A severe decrease in renal function and GFR, at 15 to 29 ml/min defines stage IV CKD, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Renal function is closely monitored, as it is in all stages, for any further progression.
Stage V
Kidney failure, end stage renal disease, or very severely reduced kidney function, defines stage V of CKD. The GFR is reduced to less than 15 ml/min. The kidneys can no longer suffice as the filtration system of the body and dialysis or transplant is vital if life is to continue. Dialysis is an alternate and necessary way to filter the blood once stage V is reached.
