The average of your last several blood and urine test results suggest that you have a condition called Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). This means your kidneys are not working as well as they should. Please don’t be alarmed — CKD is common, affecting about 1 in 10 people, and for most, it is mild and does not lead to serious complications.
Many people with CKD have no symptoms and may not require specialist treatment. However, it’s still important that we monitor your kidney function regularly to help keep things stable and prevent further problems.
What causes CKD?
There are several possible causes, including:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Kidney infections
- Kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis)
- Blockages in the flow of urine (e.g. kidney stones, enlarged prostate)
- Long-term use of certain medications, such as lithium or NSAIDs (like ibuprofen)
Monitoring your kidney health
You will be offered regular blood and urine tests to check your kidney function and detect any changes over time.
For some patients, recent test results may show a change in the stage of CKD. This might mean an increase in the CKD stage, indicating a reduction in kidney function. While this can feel worrying, it allows us to adjust your care and provide more targeted support if needed. Our aim remains to help you maintain your health and slow any further progression.
You will be automatically invited once a year (sometimes more frequently) for this monitoring —We will contact you by text for your annual appointment. If further follow-up is needed sooner, we’ll let you know.
Understanding your risk – the KFRE score
We’ve also been working in collaboration with Lancashire Teaching Hospitals to use a tool called the Kidney Failure Risk Equation (KFRE). This helps us estimate the risk of your kidney function worsening significantly over the next 2 to 5 years.
It uses a combination of factors like your age, blood test results, and urine protein levels. For most people with CKD, the KFRE score shows a very low risk, which is reassuring. If the score is higher, we can take steps earlier to support you and adjust your care as needed.
How CKD is managed
While there is no cure for CKD, it can be successfully managed. The goal is to slow the progression and reduce the risk of complications. This involves:
- Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
- Prescribing medications safely
- Making healthy lifestyle changes
What you can do to help yourself
- Stop smoking if you currently smoke
- Exercise regularly and aim for a healthy weight
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet, especially reducing salt
- Take prescribed medications as directed
- Attend your regular check-ups
Support and further information
You’re not alone in managing CKD. Here are some helpful resources:
- NHS CKD information page: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/
- Kidney Care UK: https://www.kidneycareuk.org/
- Kidney Research UK: https://www.kidneyresearchuk.org/kidney-health-information/
Final thoughts
We understand that receiving information like this can feel concerning, but please remember: many people live well with CKD for years, especially when it's monitored and managed carefully. We’ll continue to support you and ensure you receive the care and guidance you need.
If you have any questions about your condition, your KFRE score, or your care plan, please do not hesitate to contact us.