CHRONIC
KIDNEY
DISEASE

Introduction How the Kidney Works What the Kidneys Do When Kidneys Fail Chronic Kidney Disease End Stage Renal Disease CKD Curriculum MDRD GFR Self-Assessment Quizzes The PCP

Introduction

Welcome to the Kidney Disease Education Center

The kidneys are among the most vital organs in the human body. Though each kidney is only about the size of a fist, together they perform an extraordinary range of tasks that keep us alive and well every moment of every day.

This educational section was created to help patients, families, and the public understand how the kidneys work, what can go wrong, and what can be done when kidney disease is diagnosed. Whether you have just been told you have kidney disease, or you are caring for someone who does, this resource is designed for you.

What You Will Learn

How the Kidney Works — The anatomy and physiology of the kidney, explained clearly.
What the Kidneys Do — The six essential functions kidneys perform every day.
When Kidneys Fail — How and why kidney function declines.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) — The stages of CKD and what they mean for your health.
End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) — Understanding kidney failure and your treatment options.
CKD Curriculum — A comprehensive curriculum for patient and provider education.
Self-Assessment Quizzes — Test your understanding of kidney disease.

The Six Functions of the Kidney

Healthy kidneys accomplish six critical tasks that keep the body in balance:

Filter waste products from the blood
Regulate body fluids and blood volume
Adjust electrolytes and acids to keep blood chemistry in balance
Activate Vitamin D to protect bones and heart
Build red blood cells by producing erythropoietin
Control blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin system

How Common Is Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease affects an estimated 37 million Americans — about 1 in 7 adults. Many people do not know they have it because early kidney disease often causes no symptoms. The most common causes are diabetes and high blood pressure, both of which gradually damage the tiny blood vessels and filters inside the kidney.

The good news is that when kidney disease is detected early, there is much that can be done to slow its progression and protect your quality of life. Diet, blood pressure control, blood sugar management, and medications all play important roles.