Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition that affects millions of people worldwide—and understanding its stages is crucial for effective management and better quality of life. At Sarvesh Health City, the Best Nephrology Hospital in Hisar, we believe in empowering patients with clear knowledge to help them make informed health decisions.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the five stages of CKD, highlight the signs, symptoms, and treatments at each level, and offer expert advice on how to prevent or delay progression. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or are supporting a loved one, this article will help you understand CKD better—from early detection to advanced care.
✅ What Is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Chronic Kidney Disease refers to a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose function over time. Your kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating essential minerals in your body.
CKD is usually silent in the early stages, meaning many people don’t realize they have it until significant damage has occurred. That’s why early screening, diagnosis, and treatment are essential—and where our team at Sarvesh Health City in Hisar shines in early intervention.
🚦 Understanding the Stages of CKD
CKD is classified into five stages, based on how well your kidneys are functioning, measured by the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)—a test that estimates how much blood your kidneys filter per minute.
Let’s explore each stage in detail:
🩺 Stage 1 CKD: Mild Kidney Damage with Normal Function
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GFR: 90 or above
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Symptoms: Usually none
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Key Indicator: Presence of protein in urine or physical signs of kidney damage
At this early stage, your kidneys are still working normally, but there are signs of mild kidney damage. You might have high blood pressure, proteinuria (protein in urine), or a family history of kidney issues.
What to do:
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Monitor blood pressure and sugar levels
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Eat a kidney-friendly diet
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Regularly consult a nephrologist at Sarvesh Health City
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Stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary medications
🩺 Stage 2 CKD: Mild Loss of Kidney Function
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GFR: 60 to 89
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Symptoms: Still generally asymptomatic
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Progression Risk: Increases if unmanaged
Stage 2 still falls within mild kidney damage, but there is a slight decrease in kidney function. You may feel completely fine, but lab tests will reveal early abnormalities.
What to do:
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Control cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure
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Avoid painkillers (NSAIDs) and smoking
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Get a baseline kidney function test at the best nephrology hospital in Hisar—Sarvesh Health City
🩺 Stage 3 CKD: Moderate Loss of Kidney Function
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GFR: 30 to 59
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Symptoms: Fatigue, swelling in hands/feet, back pain, frequent urination at night
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Sub-Stages:
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3A: GFR 45–59
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3B: GFR 30–44
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This is often when symptoms start becoming noticeable. Patients may begin to feel tired, develop anemia, or experience early bone disorders due to mineral imbalances.
What to do:
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Consult a specialist nephrologist immediately
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Start medications to manage symptoms
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Limit intake of phosphorus, potassium, and sodium
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Get evaluated for cardiovascular risks
🩺 Stage 4 CKD: Severe Loss of Kidney Function
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GFR: 15 to 29
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Symptoms: Shortness of breath, nausea, swelling, itching, changes in appetite
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Warning: High risk of progressing to kidney failure
This is a critical stage, requiring close monitoring and preparation for potential dialysis or a kidney transplant.
What to do:
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Frequent check-ups with nephrology experts
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Begin discussing renal replacement therapy options
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Consider joining the Kidney Care Program at Sarvesh Health City
🩺 Stage 5 CKD: Kidney Failure (End-Stage Renal Disease)
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GFR: Below 15
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Symptoms: Severe fatigue, confusion, vomiting, fluid retention, shortness of breath
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Action Required: Dialysis or kidney transplant
At this point, your kidneys can no longer filter waste effectively, and life-saving interventions are necessary.
What to do:
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Start dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal)
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Register for kidney transplant evaluation
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Get holistic support including nutrition, counselling, and treatment planning at Sarvesh Health City, Hisar
🧬 What Causes Chronic Kidney Disease?
CKD doesn’t happen overnight. It is often the result of long-term underlying conditions such as:
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Diabetes (Type 1 or 2)
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Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
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Polycystic Kidney Disease
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Glomerulonephritis
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Autoimmune diseases like Lupus
Understanding and managing these root causes early on can significantly reduce the risk of CKD progression.
🍎 Diet and Lifestyle Tips to Slow CKD Progression
Your lifestyle choices can make a huge difference in managing CKD. Here are expert-backed tips:
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Choose low-sodium and low-potassium foods
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Avoid red meat and processed foods
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Stay physically active (at least 30 minutes/day)
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Quit smoking and alcohol
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Control diabetes and blood pressure rigorously
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Take medications exactly as prescribed
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Limit over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen
🧪 Importance of Early Screening and Regular Monitoring
Early detection is key to preventing CKD complications. People at higher risk (diabetics, hypertensives, those with a family history) should:
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Get regular urine protein and serum creatinine tests
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Monitor GFR levels annually
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Visit a qualified nephrologist even if symptoms are mild or absent
Sarvesh Health City in Hisar offers state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, making early detection faster and more accurate.
🏥 Why Choose Sarvesh Health City for CKD Care?
As the best nephrology hospital in Hisar, Sarvesh Health City provides comprehensive care across all CKD stages:
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Experienced nephrologists and dialysis technicians
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Modern diagnostic labs and imaging
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24/7 dialysis center and kidney transplant evaluation
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Customised diet and treatment plans
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Patient education and psychological support
We focus not just on treating CKD, but on improving the patient’s quality of life every step of the way.
🤝 Living Well with CKD: Hope and Healing
Chronic Kidney Disease can be overwhelming, but it’s not a death sentence. With proper care, education, and support, many people live long, fulfilling lives despite a CKD diagnosis.
Trust the expert team at Sarvesh Health City, where compassion meets cutting-edge care. Whether you’re in Stage 1 or Stage 5, we’re here to walk the journey with you—every step of the way.
🧾 Conclusion
Understanding the stages of CKD helps patients take proactive steps toward better kidney health. From early lifestyle changes in Stage 1 to advanced treatment planning in Stage 5, every stage demands a specific approach—and timely action is crucial.
At Sarvesh Health City, the Best Nephrology Hospital in Hisar, we provide expert, empathetic, and individualized care tailored to your kidney health journey. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule your CKD screening today and take the first step towards a healthier tomorrow.
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