Also known as: ESRD, end stage renal failure
End stage renal disease (ESRD) represents the final stage (stage 5) of chronic kidney disease (CKD), signifying that the kidneys are functioning at only 10 to 15 percent of their normal capacity. Kidneys play a vital role in your overall health by efficiently removing waste and excess fluid from your bloodstream. However, when kidney function declines to this extent, these essential functions become severely compromised.
Furthermore, kidneys are responsible for maintaining the body’s electrolyte balance and producing specific hormones that support bodily functions. In cases where chronic kidney disease progresses to ESRD, life-sustaining measures such as dialysis or a kidney transplant become necessary.
