The 5 Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
What is Kidney Disease Staging?
Kidney disease staging classifies the severity of kidney damage into five stages based on the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR). Stage 1 represents mild damage with normal function, while Stage 5 indicates kidney failure.
⚡ Quick Facts
- 🔢There are 5 stages based on GFR.
- 📉GFR < 60 indicates kidney disease.
- 💊Early stages often require no meds but lifestyle changes.
- 🏥Stage 5 usually requires dialysis or transplant.
Understanding your stage is the first step in managing your condition. The stages are primarily determined by the eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate), which measures how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood.
What are the stages of CKD?
Stage 1: Kidney Damage with Normal Function
GFR: 90 or higher
At this stage, kidneys work well, but there are signs of damage like protein in urine. Diagnosis is usually incidental.
Stage 2: Mild Loss of Function
GFR: 60 to 89
Kidney function is slightly reduced. Similar to Stage 1, symptoms are rare. Management focuses on controlling blood pressure and diabetes.
Stage 3: Moderate Loss of Function
GFR: 30 to 59
This stage is split into 3a and 3b. Waste may begin to build up. Symptoms like fatigue or swelling might appear. Dietary changes become very important.
Stage 4: Severe Loss of Function
GFR: 15 to 29
Kidneys are severely damaged. Preparing for dialysis or transplant is often discussed. Conservative management aims to delay failure.
Stage 5: Kidney Failure
GFR: Less than 15
Also known as End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Kidneys have lost nearly all their ability to function. Treatment involves dialysis, transplant, or palliative care.
How can I prevent progression?
Regardless of your stage, certain steps can protect your kidneys:
- Keep blood pressure below 140/90 (or as advised).
- Monitor blood sugar if you are diabetic.
- Follow a low-salt, healthy diet.
- Avoid smoking.
- Stay physically active.
🚨 When to See a Doctor
If you have been diagnosed with an early stage of CKD, you should have regular check-ups. See a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Sudden drop in urine output.
- Extreme fatigue or confusion.
- Severe shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns.
Last reviewed: February 11, 2026 by Dr. Rahul Sharma, B.A.M.S., M.D.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Rahul Sharma
B.A.M.S., M.D. (Ayurveda)
Expert in Ayurvedic Nephrology and Chronic Disease Management with over 15 years of clinical experience.
View Full Profile →References & Medical Citations
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). "Chronic Kidney Disease Tests & Diagnosis." Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov
- National Kidney Foundation. "Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)." Available at: https://www.kidney.org
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States." Available at: https://www.cdc.gov
- PubMed. "Integrative Medicine and the Kidney." Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
