Kidney Failure Care
Care focused on slowing kidney disease and supporting daily life
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Understanding Kidney Failure and Kidney Disease
Kidney failure happens when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and extra fluid from the blood. Kidney disease often develops slowly over time, and early care can make a meaningful difference. At Lahey Clinic, kidney failure care focuses on early detection, treatment and long-term support.
Care is designed to help manage symptoms, slow progression and support living well with kidney failure, even as needs change.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Failure
Kidney disease does not always cause symptoms right away. Early signs of kidney failure may include changes in urination, swelling in the legs or ankles, fatigue or changes seen on blood or urine tests. As kidney disease progresses, symptoms of kidney failure may include nausea, shortness of breath, muscle cramps or difficulty concentrating.
Understanding the causes of kidney failure and recognizing symptoms early can help guide timely care.
How Blood Pressure Affects Kidney Health
High blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease. Over time, increased pressure damages blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter blood. Learn more about blood pressure and kidney health.
Care for Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease develops when kidney damage lasts for months or years. Treatment focuses on slowing disease progression and managing related conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
Care plans may include:
- Nutrition guidance, including diet and nutrition for kidney disease
- Pharmacy services, including medication management
- Weight management support
- Social work services, including emotional and practical support
Kidney care is coordinated through our specialists, with close monitoring over time.
Supportive Care at Every Stage
Care for kidney failure may include supportive services that focus on comfort, symptom management and quality of life. This type of support can be helpful at any stage of illness and works alongside other treatments.
Kidney Disease Frequently Asked Questions
High blood pressure strains the blood vessels that supply the kidneys. When these vessels are damaged, kidney function declines. Managing blood pressure is one of the most important steps in protecting kidney health.
There are several things you can do to help control your blood pressure:
- Avoid smoking
- Avoid alcohol
- Eat a diet that is low in salt
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stay physically active
Take your medications as prescribed, if applicable, and keep your doctor appointments. Care plans are personalized and adjusted as needs change.
Home blood pressure monitoring can help track changes between visits. Using a properly fitted cuff and keeping a log of readings supports accurate care planning. Follow these tips from the American Heart Association:
- Empty your bladder and avoid exercise, smoking and caffeine at least 30 minutes before taking your readings.
- Sit calmly for at least five minutes before checking your blood pressure.
- Make sure your back is straight and your feet are flat on the floor.
- Put your arm on a flat surface that allows your upper arm to be at heart level.
- Take several readings at least one minute apart and record your results.
- Don’t place the blood pressure cuff over your clothing.
There are five stages of kidney failure, based on how well the kidneys filter blood. Early stages may require monitoring and lifestyle changes, while later stages may involve advanced treatment options. Understanding stages helps guide care decisions at each step.
Stage is determined through a blood test that measures kidney function. This is done by estimating your glomerular filtration rate (GFR). You should be seen by a nephrologist (kidney doctor) if your GFR is less 45 milliliters (ml) per minute (min). The stages include:
- Stage 1: Kidney damage with normal kidney function (GFR >90 ml/min)
- Stage 2: Kidney damage with mild decrease in kidney function (GFR 60-89 ml/min)
- Stage 3a: Mild to moderate decrease in kidney function (GFR 45-59 ml/min)
- Stage 3b: Moderate decrease in kidney function (GFR 30-44 ml/min)
- Stage 4: Severe decrease in kidney function (GFR 15-29 ml/min)
- Stage 5: Kidney failure (GFR <15 ml/min)
Helpful questions may include:
- What stage of kidney disease do I have?
- How can I slow progression?
- What symptoms should I watch for?
- How often should testing be done?
- What lifestyle changes can help support kidney health?
