What Are The Stages Of Chronic Kidney Disease?

Stage Three

In stage three of chronic kidney disease, there is evidence of moderate damage to the kidneys. Some patients may remain asymptomatic at this stage, though others could start to notice back pain, swelling of the hands and feet, and increases or reductions in urinary output. Doctors divide stage three into two phases. In stage 3a of the disease, a patient's estimated glomerular filtration rate is between forty-five to fifty-nine. By stage 3b, the patient's filtration rate will be between thirty to forty-four. Stage three of the disease starts to produce some of the health complications associated with chronic kidney disease. Patients could develop anemia and high blood pressure, and they may also have weakening of the bones. Patients at stage three should work with their nephrologist to find out how frequently they need to undergo tests of their kidney function, and they may want to ask about specific types of blood pressure medications called ACE inhibitors that could maintain kidney function. Nutritionists who specialize in dietary modifications for individuals with kidney disease will typically meet with patients at this stage to help them build a healthy meal plan that adheres to the necessary dietary restrictions on salt and protein.

Get information on the next stage in chronic kidney disease now.

Stage Four

The fourth stage of kidney disease is very serious, and it is often the patient's last chance to preserve some kidney function before reaching the end stage of the disease. Patients at stage four have moderate to severe kidney damage, and their estimated glomerular filtration rates are between fifteen to thirty. Patients will experience noticeable symptoms, such as back pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, muscle cramps, and sleeping difficulties. They may also have considerable fatigue, and their skin could feel constantly itchy. Swelling of the feet and ankles and urinary changes are typically present as well. Patients in this stage have noticeable health complications from the disease, including malnutrition, high blood pressure, anemia, and bone damage. Regular meetings with a nephrologist are required at this stage, and patients will also need to make a plan for either having dialysis or having a kidney transplant. The nephrologist can provide information about the most appropriate options for additional treatment at this stage, and patients will often need to have their kidney function monitored more frequently.

Read about end-stage chronic kidney disease next.