(HealthDay News) -- Chronic kidney disease occurs when the organs fail to properly regulate the body's mineral and water balance. The kidneys also lose the ability to expel waste products from the body efficiently.
Left untreated, kidney disease can raise blood pressure, lead to heart disease, and weaken bones, the National Kidney Foundation says.
If kidney disease has progressed, body waste may build up to dangerous levels. The disease can be triggered by factors including diabetes, family history of kidney disease, or high blood pressure.
The elderly and certain groups -- including blacks, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans and Hispanics -- may be at higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease.
Tests that evaluate the body's blood pressure, urine and serum creatinine are all ways to diagnose chronic kidney disease. Early detection is paramount to preventing eventual kidney failure and the need for dialysis or kidney transplant.
