Patient Resources
Short, jargon-free reads on common kidney topics. For personal medical advice, please consult during clinic hours.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is described in five stages based on the eGFR — an estimate of how well your kidneys filter blood. Stages 1 and 2 often have no symptoms; stages 3 and 4 need close monitoring; stage 5 is kidney failure.
Early diagnosis matters. With the right plan — blood pressure control, blood sugar control, and modern renoprotective medicines — progression can often be slowed significantly.
There is no single 'kidney diet' — recommendations depend on your stage, lab values and other conditions. In general, watch your salt intake, be mindful of protein quantity, and discuss potassium and phosphorus with your nephrologist.
Hydration matters too. Most patients don't need to drink large volumes — quality and balance are more important than quantity.
Common reasons include: persistently raised blood pressure, swelling of feet or face, foamy urine, blood in urine, or abnormal kidney function tests (creatinine, urea, eGFR).
If you have diabetes or long-standing hypertension, periodic kidney screening is a wise practice — even when you feel well.
Dialysis is not the end of life — it is a treatment that helps you live well when kidneys can no longer do enough on their own. With good vascular access, the right schedule and attention to diet, most patients continue meaningful work and family life.
Both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis have a role. The right choice depends on your medical condition, lifestyle and home setup.
Most stones can be prevented with adequate fluid intake, moderate salt, balanced calcium from food, and treatment of underlying metabolic issues.
If you've had more than one stone, a metabolic evaluation can identify the specific cause and guide targeted prevention.