World Kidney Day 2025: Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease, Risk Factors & Prevention Tips

World Kidney Day 2025: The second Thursday in March is observed as World Kidney Day each year. In order to increase awareness of kidney-related illnesses and disorders as well as preventative measures, World Kidney Day will be observed on March 13 this year.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means your kidneys slowly get damaged and can't do important jobs like removing waste and keeping blood pressure normal.

What is chronic kidney disease?

“Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly over time. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood, maintaining overall body balance. In CKD, this function deteriorates, leading to a buildup of harmful substances in the body. CKD is classified into five stages, with the final stage, known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.,” Explained Dr Nikhil Bhasin.

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Symptoms

Most people have no symptoms until CKD is advanced. Individuals can lose up to 90% of their kidney function before experiencing any major symptoms.

Signs of advancing CKD include:

Swollen ankles/legs

Difficulty breathing

Fatigue

Difficulty concentrating

Decreased appetite

Muscle cramps

Itchy skin

Blood in the urine

Foamy urine

Risk Factors

Anyone can develop CKD - at any age. However, some people are at a higher risk than others. The most common CKD risk factors are:

Diabetes

High blood pressure (hypertension)

Heart disease and/or heart failure Obesity

Over the age of 60

Family history of CKD or kidney failure

Personal history of acute kidney injury (AKI)

Smoking and/or use of tobacco products

For many people, CKD is not caused by just one reason. Instead, it is a result of many physical, environmental, and social factors. Early detection is important – CKD often begins without causing any noticeable symptoms. Knowing the risk factors can help you know your level of risk and if you should get checked for CKD.

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Preventive Measures to Protect Kidney Health

Taking care of your kidneys doesn’t require drastic changes – simple, consistent habits can go a long way in maintaining their health. By adopting these preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of developing kidney disease and ensure your kidneys continue to function optimally.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys efficiently filter waste and toxins. Aim for about 2-3 litres daily, but adjust based on activity levels and climate.

Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce salt intake to help control blood pressure, and limit processed foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats.

Exercise Regularly: Engaging in moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week helps regulate blood pressure, maintain a healthy weight, and support overall kidney health.

Regular Health Check-ups

Routine health screenings especially for individuals with risk factors, can help detect kidney issues early. Regular urine and blood tests allow healthcare providers to monitor kidney function and address potential concerns before they escalate.

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