Health Topics

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is the term used when the kidneys are not working as well as they should for more than a few months. “Chronic” means long-lasting, not necessarily serious, and “disease” simply refers to any change in kidney structure or function – even if you feel well.

CKD is common and can affect people of any age, though it becomes more likely as we get older. It has different stages, from mild to severe, but most people have mild to moderate disease and do not progress to kidney failure.

Doctors usually check kidney health with simple blood and urine tests. These can show how well your kidneys filter waste and whether there are signs of damage. Detecting problems early makes a big difference – treatment and lifestyle changes can slow or even stop CKD getting worse, and also reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.

That’s why it’s important to attend your blood tests and provide a urine sample when asked – even if you feel well. These quick checks help protect your kidneys and your overall health.

Quick guide: CKD at a glance

  • What it is: When your kidneys don’t work as well as they should for a long time.
  • How common: Very common, often mild, and may not cause symptoms.
  • Why tests matter: Simple blood and urine checks can spot problems early and help protect both your kidneys and your heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to worry if I have CKD?

Not necessarily. Most people have mild CKD that does not lead to kidney failure. Regular monitoring helps keep track of your kidney health.

What symptoms will I notice?

Often none at all – that’s why blood and urine tests are so important. Problems can be spotted before you feel unwell.

What can I do to help my kidneys?

• Attend your blood and urine tests when invited.
• Take prescribed medicines as directed.
• Keep your blood pressure and diabetes (if you have it) under control.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet and stay active.
• Don’t smoke.

Why are heart health and kidney health linked?

Kidneys and the heart work closely together. Protecting your kidneys also lowers your risk of heart attack and stroke.

👉 Looking after your kidneys is simple – attend your tests, follow your treatment, and keep healthy.

Want to know more?

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Veteran support

Register with a GP surgery and tell them you served in the UK armed forces

If you have not already, it’s important to register with an NHS GP surgery as soon as possible and tell them you served in the UK armed forces so they can add it to your medical record. This includes the:

  • British Army
  • Royal Navy
  • Royal Air Force
  • Royal Marines
  • Merchant Navy
  • Registering as soon as you leave the armed forces instead of waiting until you need treatment means you may be able to access treatment faster.

When you register with an NHS GP surgery, it’s important to give them any information you received from your military medical officer.

This will help your GP to better understand your health, including any health problems related to your service. It will also help make sure you’re referred to dedicated services for veterans, where appropriate.Support for your health and wellbeing after leaving the UK armed forces

If you’re already registered with a GP but have not told them you served in the armed forces, make sure to let your GP or a member of the practice team know when you next speak to them.

This is important to do because it may be relevant to your health and care, now or in the future. It does not matter how long you served for or when you left the armed forces.

Do not worry about sharing information about your time in the armed forces. GPs, nurses and other people working in the NHS are bound by law to deliver a confidential service.

Veterans and their families and carers can access dedicated mental health support services run by the NHS and mental health charities.

These include:

The NHS can support your health when you leave the armed forces. It does not matter if your health needs are a result of your service or not.

GP surgeries are usually the first point of contact if you have a health problem.

They can treat many conditions, give health advice and refer you to other NHS services if needed.