Older age, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history put you at higher risk for kidney disease. There is not enough evidence to weigh the benefits and harms of screening for kidney disease among adults who don't have diabetes, high blood pressure or symptoms of kidney disease.

Kidney infections require prompt medical attention. Talk to your doctor if you experience fever, back/side/groin/abdominal pain, frequent urination, strong urge to urinate, burning sensation when urinating, or pus or blood in your urine.

Chronic kidney disease results in a slow loss of kidney function. Treatment is meant to slow down the development of kidney damage. You may not notice symptoms until the disease is advanced. Complications include high blood pressure, anemia, and retaining fluids. To reduce the risk of kidney disease, avoid smoking, manage medical conditions, maintain a healthy weight, and follow the instructions outlined on the package when using over-the-counter medications.

Kidney disease can lead to too much phosphorus in the blood and increase the risk of bone and heart disease. A low-phosphorus diet can help. To limit phosphorus in your diet, avoid fast food, processed food and drinks with phosphorus in them. Diet suggestions and substitutes in this resource.

The risk of developing kidney cysts increases as you age. Simple kidney cysts do not usually have symptoms or need treatment. Talk to your doctor if you experience a fever and dull pain in your back, side or upper abdomen.

In acute kidney failure, your kidneys suddenly (generally in less than a few days) stop working. You may notice swelling and a decreased amount of urine. It is most common among people who are critically ill. Otherwise healthy people can recover.