Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys are damaged and lose their ability to filter waste and fluid out of the blood, which can lead to waste buildup in the body and harm your health. The following are some of the main causes of kidney disease:

• Diabetes: Too much glucose, or sugar, in the blood can damage the kidneys filters over time, leading to kidney disease.

• High blood pressure: High blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, making them less effective at removing waste and fluid from the body.

• Genetic conditions: Certain genetic conditions like polycystic kidney disease can cause defects in the kidney structure, leading to kidney failure.

• Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases like lupus nephritis can cause inflammation and damage to the small blood vessels that filter wastes in the kidneys.

• Urinary tract issues: Inflammation in different parts of the kidney or urinary tract issues can lead to long-term functional decline.

• Obstructions: Obstructions caused by kidney stones or tumors can cause kidney damage.

• Medications: Heavy or long-term use of certain medications, even those that are common over-the-counter, can cause kidney damage.

• Smoking: Smoking can also be a contributing factor to chronic kidney disease.

• Age: The risk of kidney disease increases as you get older.

Its important to note that in the early stages of kidney disease, you might have few signs or symptoms, and you might not realize that you have kidney disease until the condition is advanced. Therefore, its important to get regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor kidney function, especially if you have risk factors for kidney disease.