Chronic kidney disease
CKD, weak kidneys
What it is
The kidneys slowly lose their power to clean the blood. High blood pressure and diabetes are the main causes. It gets worse over years and can lead to kidney failure.
Common signs
- Often no signs at all until late
- Swollen feet, ankles or face
- Passing urine more at night, or foamy urine
- Tiredness and weakness
- Itching and poor appetite when advanced
How it is diagnosed
A blood test shows how well the kidneys filter (eGFR). A urine test shows if protein is leaking. Tests are repeated after three months to confirm the disease is long-lasting.
Tests
- Creatinine blood test (eGFR) — shows how well the kidneys clean the blood
- Urine dipstick or urine protein test — shows kidney damage
- Blood pressure reading — high pressure harms the kidneys
- Kidney ultrasound — shows kidney size and shape
- Blood sugar test — checks for diabetes
How food affects it
Eating less salt helps control blood pressure and swelling. Do not eat very large amounts of meat. In later stages, you may need to limit potassium or phosphate — only if your health worker tells you. Keep taking your medicines.
Food as medicine, alongside your medicine. Food works alongside your medicines, not instead of them. Never stop or change your tablets without talking to your health worker.
Eat often
- Fresh vegetables cooked without salt
- Fresh fish, chicken and eggs — normal portions
- Beans and lentils — in moderation
- Fresh fruit like pawpaw, apple and watermelon
- Millet, sorghum, rice and unripe plantain
Eat in moderation
- Red meat — small pieces
- High-potassium foods (banana, avocado, orange, tomato, leafy greens) — only limit if told to
- Milk and dairy — follow advice in later stages
Avoid or cut down
- Stock cubes, seasoning powder and added salt
- Smoked, salted or dried fish
- Processed meats and salty snacks
- Herbal mixtures and pain tablets unless your health worker agrees — can harm the kidneys
- Fizzy drinks like cola
Get help urgently
Go to hospital now if you pass very little urine, are very short of breath, have chest pain, very swollen legs, confusion, or vomiting that does not stop.
General information, not a diagnosis. Always follow the advice of your health worker.