Chronic kidney failure is the progressive loss of kidney function over months or years. It is characterized by a buildup of waste products due to decreased filtration by the kidneys. The National Kidney Foundation stages chronic kidney disease based on glomerular filtration rate. Stage 1 involves normal kidney function while stage 5 is end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis or transplantation. Treatment options depend on the stage and may include lifestyle changes, medication, dialysis, and transplantation.