Guide · 7 min read
Stages of Kidney Disease: What Each eGFR Stage Means
How doctors stage kidney disease using eGFR, and what each stage means for treatment and monitoring.
Doctors divide chronic kidney disease into five stages using the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a number calculated from your creatinine, age and sex. The stage tells your team how carefully to monitor and treat you.
The five stages at a glance
| Stage | eGFR (mL/min) | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 90 or above | Normal function with signs of damage |
| 2 | 60–89 | Mild loss |
| 3a / 3b | 30–59 | Moderate loss, more monitoring |
| 4 | 15–29 | Severe loss, planning ahead |
| 5 | Below 15 | Kidney failure (ESRD) |
Why staging helps
In early stages the focus is slowing damage and protecting the heart. In later stages the focus shifts to managing anaemia and minerals, and preparing for dialysis or transplant.
A note of reassurance
A stage is a guide, not a sentence. Many people live well for years in early and middle stages with good blood-pressure control and regular check-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does stage 3 kidney disease mean?
It means moderate loss of kidney function (eGFR 30–59). Care focuses on slowing progression and treating complications like anaemia.
When does dialysis usually start?
Usually around eGFR 15 or below, or earlier if symptoms like fluid overload or dangerous potassium appear.
Sources
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This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor about your specific condition.