Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 5—End Stage Renal Disease

Kidney failure and need for dialysis or transplant, eGFR less than 15

End stage renal disease (ESRD), or renal failure, is the end stage of kidney function—not the end stage of life. Also called stage 5 of CKD, ESRD indicates that both kidneys are no longer working sufficiently to keep your body healthy and chemically balanced. If you haven't already decided on an ESRD treatment, discuss your options with your doctor so you can make an informed decision when the time comes. 

Possible kidney failure signs and symptoms:

• Uremia
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abnormal thyroid levels
• Swelling in hands/legs/eyes/lower back
• Lower back pain

Stage 5 kidney failure life expectancy:

How long can you live with stage 5 kidney failure? While there's no cure for kidney disease, there are treatment options for kidney failure that can help people live well for decades.

Treatment goals:

• Be ready to start the treatment option that best fits your lifestyle:
  • Peritoneal dialysis
  • Home hemodialysis
  • In-center hemodialysis
  • Kidney transplant
  • Supportive care without dialysis (palliative care)
• Continue to treat any other medical conditions and/or complications.

What you can do:

• Meet with your insurance coordinator to help you understand your insurance coverage options.
• Meet regularly with your kidney doctor to monitor your progression.
• Continue to see your primary care physician (PCP) for new symptoms or changes/worsening of existing conditions.