What is stage 5 kidney disease?

According to The Renal Association, a patient is diagnosed with stage 5 kidney disease when kidney function falls to a level below 15 percent. Stage 5 kidney disease is also referred to as end-stage kidney disease because it is the final stage of this health condition.

MedlinePlus states that an individual gradually loses kidney function over a period of 10 to 20 years before receiving a diagnosis of stage 5 kidney disease. Symptoms include nausea, loss of appetite and insomnia. Medications are available to treat this stage of kidney disease, but MedlinePlus warns that complications such as stroke, nerve damage or liver failure can occur.