Patients and family members often have a lot of questions about the kidneys and kidney disease. Here we provide information and advice on the commonly asked questions, from understanding what the kidneys do to the stages of kidney disease.
What do the kidneys do?
The kidneys are complex organs that control blood chemistry, blood pressure and the amount of fluid in the body. Kidneys are as vital as our heart.
Find out what the kidneys do, what happens if they stop working and if you're at risk of kidney disease.
What happens if your kidneys go wrong?
Kidneys can develop abnormalities or stop working properly for many reasons.
Am I at risk?
Kidney disease can affect anyone at any age. However, certain factors may mean you're at greater risk.
What are the stages of kidney disease?
There are various stages ranging from mild loss to complete kidney failure.
Can I live with one kidney?
Kidneys perform many functions but it's not unusual to have only one kidney to do the work of two.
How do I donate a kidney?
Find out more about organ donation and how to register your decision on organ donor register.
Worried about your kidneys?
Take our free kidney health check today to see if you're at risk of kidney disease.
Accelerating research through innovation
Jelina is a patient who had kidney failure and was on dialysis three times a week. Thanks to research, Jelina received a kidney transplant.
Got a question? Get in touch.
For more information or if you have any questions, get in touch with our Supporter Care Team who are here to help.