The kidneys filter wastes out of the blood. When the kidneys are diseased this process is impaired; wastes remain in the body and cause other medical conditions.

At first, kidney disease has no symptoms and can only be detected by testing the blood and urine.

The main risk factors for kidney disease are diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and family history.

When the disease has progressed, kidney failure may result, causing the dependence on dialysis or the need for a kidney transplant.

If chronic kidney disease is suspected, your healthcare provider will recommend dietary guidelines and medications that will slow the worsening of the disease and possibly prevent additional health problems.