Chronic kidney disease

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Chronic kidney disease happens when your kidneys no longer filter your blood the way they should, so wastes build up in your blood. This has probably been going on for years, and it may keep getting worse over time. If your disease gets worse, you could have kidney failure.

Diabetes and high blood pressure cause most chronic kidney disease. Controlling those diseases can help slow or stop the damage to your kidneys.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.