You Just Found Out You Have Chronic Kidney Disease—This Is What Experts Recommend You Do First

Navigate your new diagnosis with one expert-recommended step at a time.

Reviewed by Dietitian Madeline Peck, RDN, CDN

Key Points

• Understanding the underlying cause and lab results guides treatment and empowers patients.
• Partnering with a renal dietitian early and prioritizing nutrition can help slow chronic kidney disease progression.
• Managing mental and emotional health is a key part of managing chronic kidney disease.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is more common than many people realize, affecting about one in 10 U.S. adults, including nearly 38% of people with diabetes. It occurs when the kidneys become too damaged to properly filter waste and excess fluid from the blood, and over time, this can allow toxins and fluid to build up in the body. This buildup increases the risk of health complications like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and even reduced quality of life.

While receiving a CKD diagnosis can feel overwhelming, experts stress that it’s important not to panic. “Many individuals live for decades with CKD in its stable stages, especially when the underlying causes are addressed early and healthy lifestyle habits are prioritized,” says nephrologist Dr. Megha Babu, MD, CHCQM-PHYADV.

But small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference. Ahead, experts share the most important steps to take after a CKD diagnosis, plus lifestyle habits that can help support kidney health over time.

Find Out What’s Behind Your Diagnosis

A CKD diagnosis can feel intimidating at first, but experts say one of the most important things you can do is understand the root cause. Renal dietitian Jen Hernandez, RDN, CSR, LDN encourages patients to ask questions and get clarity early on. “A diagnosis tells you what’s happening, but the ‘why,’ whether it’s diabetes, high blood pressure, an autoimmune condition, a structural issue or something else, guides every decision moving forward,” she explains. “Ask your nephrologist directly, and make sure you have that information documented somewhere you can easily reference later.”

Understanding what’s driving CKD can help guide the lifestyle and treatment strategies that best support kidney health. For example, high blood pressure can both contribute to and worsen CKD, making blood pressure management a top priority. Keeping blood pressure in a healthy range through proper nutrition, lifestyle interventions and prescription medication from your doctor can help protect the kidneys from further damage. Similarly, for people whose CKD is linked to diabetes, blood sugar management is essential for preserving kidney function.

“Chronic kidney disease truly rewards patient involvement,” adds Dr. Babu. “The people who often do best are not necessarily those with the mildest disease, but those who stay engaged in their care by attending appointments, asking questions and adopting healthier habits. An early diagnosis can actually be a gift—it gives you time to take action and make meaningful changes that can positively impact your future health.”

Understand Your Results (and Monitor Them)

Seeing pages of lab results filled with unfamiliar numbers can feel intimidating. Instead of trying to navigate them alone, experts recommend taking time to review your results with your physician and asking questions about what each marker means for your health. If additional questions come up later, don’t hesitate to schedule a follow-up visit to gain more clarity and confidence in your care plan.

Dr. Babu explains that CKD is often considered a “silent disease” because many people do not experience symptoms in the early stages. That’s why diagnosis typically depends on a combination of lab work and imaging rather than symptoms alone. “The two main tests are a blood test and a urine test,” she adds. “The blood test measures creatinine to calculate estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which reflects how well the kidneys are filtering. The urine test looks for albumin, a protein that can leak into the urine when the kidneys are damaged, which may signal early kidney disease.” She also notes that kidney ultrasounds are commonly used to evaluate kidney size and structure, and in some cases, a biopsy may be needed to determine the underlying cause.

According to Dr. Babu, two of the most important numbers to understand when managing CKD are your eGFR and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR). “Take time to understand what these numbers mean, keep a record of them at each visit and pay attention to how they change over time,” she says. “A stable eGFR over the years is encouraging, while a decline may signal that additional interventions are needed.” Keeping track of these markers over time can give you a clearer picture of your kidney health and help you feel more informed and engaged in your care plan.

Prioritize Nutrition Early With a Renal Dietitian

Diet plays a major role in managing CKD, so experts say it’s important not to wait until dialysis to seek support from a renal dietitian. “Most people are referred to a renal dietitian late in the game, often once they’re already on dialysis,” says Hernandez. “Starting nutrition therapy earlier is where you have the greatest opportunity to slow progression and preserve kidney function.”

Because nutrition needs vary by stage of CKD, research shows individualized guidance is key. “Managing CKD through diet can be complex, so working with a renal dietitian can help you navigate the right approach for your specific needs,” says Dr. Babu. She explains that reducing sodium can help manage blood pressure and fluid retention, while monitoring potassium and phosphorus often becomes more important as kidney function declines. Protein and fluid needs can also change depending on your stage of CKD. Since excess protein may increase the kidneys’ workload, moderation is often recommended, while fluid intake may also need closer monitoring as kidney function changes.

It’s also worth noting that a CKD diagnosis doesn’t mean your diet has to become bland or overly restrictive. Hernandez shares that the approach to kidney nutrition has evolved and is more flexible and plant-forward than before. “Modern kidney nutrition is far more flexible and plant-forward than many people expect,” says Hernandez. “Focus on what you can and should be eating rather than what the internet is telling you to avoid.” Renal dietitians can also equip you with the tools you need to navigate everyday nutrition, such as learning to read food labels. Hernandez shares that for patients who need to monitor phosphorus intake, it is important to look for added phosphates in ingredient lists, often identified by words beginning with “phos”. She also recommends checking sodium levels in packaged foods. “These hidden additives usually matter more than whole foods like tomatoes or bananas,” she says.

Structure Support for Your Mental Health

While prioritizing your diet and understanding your condition are important, so is your emotional health. “Planning for the long haul, including the emotional side, is crucial. A CKD diagnosis is rarely a sprint. Anxiety, fear and information overload are common in the first few months,” Hernandez shares.

Research suggests that nearly half of people living with CKD experience symptoms of depression or anxiety. While physiological changes associated with CKD may contribute to mental health challenges, experts emphasize the importance of a patient-centered care plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease. An integrated approach that combines medical care with psychological support can help improve overall well-being and quality of life.

Dr. Babu reminds patients that many of these feelings are normal. “Looking after your mental health is an important part of caring for your kidneys,” she shares. Hernandez encourages her patients to connect with peer communities, find a therapist who understands chronic illness, prioritize sleep and focus on stress management as part of their individual care plan.

Our Expert Take

A CKD diagnosis can feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t mean your life or your health journey is over. In many ways, experts say it can serve as an opportunity to better understand your body, uncover the factors contributing to your condition and make meaningful lifestyle changes that support your kidney health for the long term. Prioritizing nutrition, including working with a renal dietitian, can help you meet your nutrient needs while still enjoying variety and flavor in your meals. Caring for your mental health is also crucial. When the emotional weight of a diagnosis feels heavy, don’t be afraid to seek out support.