Stage 1 chronic kidney disease (CKD)
What is stage 1 chronic kidney disease (CKD)?
Stage 1 chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the earliest stage of kidney disease. It is when the kidneys are still functioning well, but blood and urine tests show signs of damage. At this stage, there is an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 90ml/min or greater (which is normal), but other tests have found signs of kidney disease. This could include results from a urine test called the albumin to creatinine ratio (uACR).
A urine albumin creatinine ratio (uACR) test identifies the level of protein in the urine, a sign of kidney damage. Higher uACR numbers increase your chances of CKD worsening and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
How stage 1 CKD impacts your health
At stage 1, the kidneys can still perform their normal functions, including filtering waste and extra fluid from your blood. But the presence of damage means that they are under stress, which can slowly lead to a decrease in their efficiency over time. In order to protect long term health, it is important that these early stages and any underlying causes of kidney damage are well managed by a healthcare team.
Signs and symptoms of stage 1 CKD
As the kidneys are functioning well, there are usually no symptoms at this stage, and in the majority of cases are diagnosed following routine tests, such as urine and blood tests, for a different condition.
Treatments for stage 1 CKD
If an individual has been diagnosed with stage 1 CKD or told they are at risk, there are steps to help protect their kidney health:
- Management of other medical conditions. Conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes can damage the kidneys, so it is important to follow a GP’s advice, including taking any medications and attending appointments.
- Stop smoking. Smoking can increase the risk and rate of progression to kidney failure. It also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) which increases the risk of CKD.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Avoid consuming too much salt as this increases blood pressure and can put strain on the kidneys. For more information on healthy eating for kidney patients visit our dedicated page.
- Avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Avoid drinking over 14 units a week regularly.
- Exercise regularly. The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week. Starting with short walks is a great way to begin.
- Having overweight. Losing weight through a healthy diet and exercise can improve your health.
- Avoid the use of certain painkillers, called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Ibuprofen, where possible, as these can cause kidney damage if taken too often.
For more information on how to look after your kidneys, download our Get kidney fit booklet.
Your doctor may also prescribe medications to help prevent cardiovascular disease, such as a statin (a cholesterol lowering drug).
Important questions to ask
- What are the results of my eGFR and uACR tests?
- Do I have protein in my urine?
- When are the next recommended tests for my eGFR and uACR?
- Should I make any lifestyle changes?
- Do I have diabetes or prediabetes?
- Do I have high blood pressure?
- Does this diagnosis impact the management of any other conditions that I may have?
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