Stage 2 chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a mild form of long-term kidney damage, characterised by an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between 60 and 89. Because this range still falls within a broadly acceptable kidney function threshold, the condition is frequently undetected. It is most common in adults over 65, with an estimated nine in ten affected individuals unaware of their diagnosis.
CKD is diagnosed primarily through blood testing for creatinine, which reflects how efficiently the kidneys are filtering waste. Renal ultrasound may also be used to assess structural damage. Stage 2 is largely asymptomatic, though possible signs include changes in urine colour, altered urinary frequency, fatigue, hypertension, peripheral oedema, lower back pain, and dry or itchy skin.
The most common underlying causes include poorly controlled diabetes and hypertension, as well as recurrent urinary tract infections, kidney stones, polycystic kidney disease, lupus, and other conditions that progressively impair renal function. Kidney damage at any stage is irreversible, but progression can be slowed or halted through a combination of lifestyle modification and pharmacological management.
Dietary recommendations focus on reducing sodium and ultra-processed food intake, limiting excessive protein consumption, and prioritising whole grains, vegetables, legumes, lean protein, and fish. Pharmacological options for managing underlying conditions include ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers for hypertension, careful glucose monitoring for diabetes, and finerenone for adults with CKD associated with type 2 diabetes. Regular monitoring of eGFR, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and electrolytes is recommended to track disease progression.
Clinicians advise that early diagnosis and consistent management offer the best opportunity to prevent advancement to later stages of the disease.
Source: Healthline. Everything You Should Know About Stage 2 Kidney Disease. healthline.com (reviewed 2026).
