Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a health problem that happens slowly over time. It does not stop your kidneys all at once. It starts small and gets worse with time if it is not treated or managed properly. That is why doctors and health experts have divided it into five clear stages. These stages help us understand how much damage has happened and what needs to be done next.
Knowing about the five Chronic Kidney Disease Stages is very important. It can help people take early steps to stay healthy and avoid bigger problems. If it is found early, there is a good chance to slow it down or even stop it from getting worse.
Let us now look at each stage, one by one, in very simple words.
What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Your kidneys are small bean shaped organs in your body. Their main job is to clean your blood, remove extra water and waste and balance important minerals. When kidneys stop working properly for a long time, doctors call it Chronic Kidney Disease.
This disease is not like a sudden fever or cold. It grows slowly. And many times, people do not even know they have it. That is why it is called a “silent” problem.
The five Chronic Kidney Disease Stages are based on how well your kidneys clean your blood. This is checked using a simple blood test called eGFR. The full form of eGFR is “estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate.” This number tells how much blood your kidneys are filtering each minute.
Stage 1: Early Warning With No Big Signs
In Stage 1, your kidneys are still working almost like normal. The eGFR number is 90 or more, which means your kidneys are doing a good job. But some small signs may start to show up.
- You might have protein in your urine.
- Your blood pressure might be going up.
- You could have swelling in the feet or face in the morning.
Even though the kidneys are still working fine, there may be early signs of trouble. Many people feel completely fine at this stage, which is why they do not go to the doctor. But this is the best time to make changes. Drinking more water, eating less salt, managing sugar levels and going for regular check ups can really help.
Stage 2: Slight Loss in Kidney Function
In Stage 2, the eGFR drops to between 60 and 89. Your kidneys are still working but not as well as before. Like in Stage 1, you may not feel any major changes in your body. But inside, your kidneys are slowly getting tired.
Doctors might find more protein or other changes in your urine. There may be small signs like:
- Feeling more tired than usual
- Changes in urination
- Mild swelling in your hands or ankles
You should be very serious about your health in this stage. Regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, avoiding junk food and taking medicines (if prescribed) will help slow down the damage.
Stage 3: Clear Signs Start to Show
Stage 3 is when most people begin to realise something is wrong. Your eGFR is between 30 and 59. This means your kidneys are not able to clean your blood properly.
Stage 3 is split into two parts:
- 3a: eGFR between 45 and 59
- 3b: eGFR between 30 and 44
Symptoms in Stage 3 usually start showing. It should sound like a sure symptom, always look for it.
- More tired or weak, even after rest
- Swelling in the legs, ankles or face
- Back pain near your lower ribs
- Muscle cramps at night
- Trouble sleeping or focusing
Doctors usually ask for more tests at this stage. They may suggest seeing a kidney specialist. If you take action now, you can still avoid future problems. This stage is a turning point in the Chronic Kidney Disease Stages. You must not ignore it.
Stage 4: Kidney Function Is Quite Low
Stage 4 is a serious stage. The eGFR drops to between 15 and 29. Your kidneys are badly damaged and may stop working soon.
You may notice:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Dry or itchy skin
- Breathing problems
- Changes in how often you urinate
- Weak bones or low energy levels
This stage is a wake up call. You must follow your doctor’s advice closely. You may be asked to meet a diet expert. You will likely be given special medicines to protect the remaining kidney function.
Doctors may also begin planning for future treatments like dialysis or a kidney transplant when they confirm this stage. It can be scary but many people live healthy lives with proper care.
Stage 5: Kidney Failure
This is the last stage. The eGFR drops below 15. Your kidneys can no longer do their job. Waste and extra fluid build up in the body. This causes serious health issues.
You may feel:
- Very weak and tired
- Confused or dizzy
- Swollen feet, hands and face
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Dark coloured or less urine
- Severe itching or dry skin
This stage is also known as End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD). You will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive. It is a tough stage but with the right support and treatment, you can still live a meaningful life.
How Are the Stages Diagnosed?
All these tools help your doctor figure out where you stand in the five Chronic Kidney Disease Stages and how to help you next. To find out which stage you are in, your doctor may use a few tests:
| Blood Test (eGFR) | Checks how well your kidneys are working. |
| Urine Test | Looks for protein, blood or other problems. |
| Blood Pressure Check | High BP can damage kidneys. |
| Ultrasound or Scan | Shows if kidneys are shrinking or blocked. |
| Medical History | Your lifestyle and past illnesses matter too. |
Why It’s Important to Act Early
Early stages of kidney disease are easier to manage. You may only need small lifestyle changes. But if you wait too long, things can get serious and hard to control.
People with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of kidney disease must get tested once a year. Catching it early is the smartest way to avoid trouble later.
Final Words
Understanding the Chronic Kidney Disease Stages gives you the power to act early. It is not just about taking medicine. It is about making better choices every day, drinking more water, eating fresh food and staying active.
And if you are looking for expert support and trusted medical care, Aryan Hospital, an Advance Multi Speciality Hospital in Gurgaon, offers full support, from early tests to expert kidney care. Our team can guide you through each stage and help you live a healthier life.
Take care of your kidneys, they work hard every day, even when you don’t notice. Give them the attention they deserve.