Stage 2 chronic kidney disease (CKD) typically has no obvious symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose. Some physical symptoms include changes in urine color and dry or itchy skin. Lifestyle changes can help prevent the disease from progressing to later stages.
CKD is a long-term damage to the kidneys, characterized by irreversible damage that progresses through five stages.
A diagnosis of stage 2 CKD means mild kidney damage.
The goal of CKD treatment is to stop the disease from progressing to later stages. While the damage cannot be reversed at any stage, it is still possible to prevent stage 2 from progressing to stage 5.
Diagnosing Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
Doctors diagnose CKD through a blood test called estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). This test measures the creatinine level in the blood to assess whether the kidneys are filtering waste effectively.
High creatinine levels indicate decreased kidney function. In stage 2, the eGFR value will be between 60 and 89.
An eGFR in stage 2 is still within the expected range for kidney function, so CKD can be difficult to diagnose at this stage.
Doctors may also perform imaging tests such as a renal ultrasound to better observe the kidneys and assess the extent of damage.
Since stage 1 CKD has very little damage and few symptoms, it is rarely diagnosed. Stage 1 can progress to stage 2 when kidney function decreases or physical damage occurs.
Symptoms of Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
Stage 2 CKD is mostly asymptomatic, and noticeable symptoms typically appear in later stages.
Causes of Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
Factors that lead to decreased kidney function, such as high blood pressure or poorly managed diabetes, can cause kidney damage or CKD over time.
When the kidneys don’t work properly, they cannot remove waste from the blood or produce adequate urinary output.
Common causes of CKD include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Recurrent urinary infections
- History of kidney stones
- Kidney and surrounding area cysts
- Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (a genetic kidney disease)
- Lupus
The longer the kidneys lack proper management, the more damage they may suffer.
When to See a Doctor for Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
You should see a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above.
Since mild CKD has fewer noticeable symptoms compared to advanced stages, you may not realize you have stage 2 CKD until your annual physical exam.
If you have any risk factors or a family history of kidney disease, your doctor may monitor your kidney health more closely.
Treatment for Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
Once kidney damage occurs, it cannot be reversed. However, it is possible to prevent further progression through lifestyle changes and medication.
Close monitoring of blood work, including eGFR, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and electrolyte levels, should be done to prevent worsening of the condition.
Close monitoring can show whether your treatment plan is improving kidney function.
Diet for Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
While there is no single diet to “cure” stage 2 CKD, focusing on the right foods and avoiding others may help improve kidney function.
You should avoid foods with high sodium (salt), as they are among the worst foods for the kidneys. Additionally, avoid:
- Ultra-processed foods, boxed foods, and fast food
- Saturated fats
- Deli meats
If your intake of animal or plant-based proteins is excessive, your doctor may recommend reducing protein consumption. Too much protein can put strain on the kidneys.
At stage 2, you may not need to follow some of the restrictions recommended for more advanced CKD, such as avoiding potassium.
Medications for Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
The goal of medications for stage 2 CKD is to treat the underlying conditions that contribute to kidney damage.
If you have diabetes, you will need to monitor your blood glucose levels closely.
Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may be used to treat high blood pressure that causes CKD.
Kerendia (finerenone) is a prescription medication used for adults with CKD associated with type 2 diabetes, which can reduce the risk of:
- Sustained GFR decline
- End-stage CKD
- Death due to heart disease
- Nonfatal heart attack
- Hospitalization for heart failure
Living with Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
Preventing CKD progression may feel daunting. The small daily choices you make can significantly impact your overall kidney health.
You can start at home with measures that complement a balanced diet for stage 2 CKD management:
- Taking iron supplements to treat anemia and improve fatigue
- Staying hydrated
- Controlling portion sizes
- Practicing stress management
Other strategies to consider:
- Avoid smoking if you smoke, or talk to your doctor about a cessation plan
- Avoid alcohol if you drink
- Exercise at least 30 minutes daily
Can Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease Be Reversed?
Sometimes, a medication side effect or blockage may cause acute kidney injury. Once the cause is identified, kidney function may improve with treatment.
There is no cure for CKD that has caused permanent damage, including mild cases diagnosed as stage 2.
However, you can still take action to prevent progression. Stage 2 CKD can be prevented from advancing to stage 3 with proper care.
Outlook for Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
People with stage 2 CKD still have relatively healthy kidney function.
It is most common in people over the age of 65, and up to 9 in 10 adults may not know they have it.
Regular testing and early treatment can prevent stage 2 CKD from progressing and improve the outlook.
Summary
Stage 2 CKD is a mild form of CKD, and you may not notice any symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose.
If you have underlying conditions or a family history that increases your risk for CKD, ensure that you get regular blood and urine tests.
Once diagnosed with CKD, stopping kidney damage progression depends on lifestyle changes. Discuss with your doctor how to get started.
