The medical abbreviation CKD stands for Chronic Kidney Disease, which is a long-term and progressive condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly. CKD is a common condition, particularly in older adults and those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of kidney disease in the family.
CKD can be caused by a variety of factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney's filtering units), and polycystic kidney disease. Symptoms of CKD may not appear until the condition is advanced but may include fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, and swelling in the legs or ankles.
Treatment for CKD may involve medications to manage underlying conditions, such as blood pressure or diabetes, as well as lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications and exercise. In advanced stages of CKD, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary to replace the lost kidney function. It is important to identify and manage CKD early to prevent or delay progression to more serious complications, such as kidney failure.