How is Chronic Kidney Disease treated?

Treatment aims to slow progression, manage complications, and preserve quality of life. 

Lifestyle & preventive measures

• Control blood pressure and blood sugar.
• Reduce salt intake and follow a kidney-friendly diet (protein, potassium, phosphorus adjusted as needed).
• Exercise regularly, maintain healthy weight, avoid smoking, and limit NSAID use. 

Medical management

• Blood pressure control (ACE inhibitors or ARBs are commonly recommended to reduce proteinuria and slow CKD progression when appropriate). 
• Diabetes management — tight glycemic control and use of evidence-based agents as appropriate. 
• Anemia treatment — iron therapy and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents when indicated.
• Mineral and bone disorder management — phosphate binders, vitamin D analogues as needed.

Monitoring & referral

• Regular eGFR and urine albumin monitoring, plus management of cardiovascular risk. Refer to nephrology when eGFR declines or albuminuria is significant (local guidance often suggests referral for eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m² or uACR >300 mg/g). 

Advanced therapies

• Dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal) for kidney failure (stage 5) or uremic complications.
• Kidney transplantation — definitive therapy for eligible patients.
• Conservative/palliative care may be considered for those who opt out of dialysis. 

When to seek urgent care

Seek immediate medical attention for:

• Chest pain
• Severe shortness of breath
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Rapidly declining urine output

With early detection, targeted treatment, and regular follow-up, many people with CKD can slow progression and reduce complications.

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