Chronic kidney disease (CKD) describes a gradual loss of kidney function over time, where the kidneys are permanently damaged and unable to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood effectively. When diagnosed with Stage 3 chronic kidney disease, it means an individual has moderate kidney damage. While Stage 3 kidney disease is generally not considered curable in the sense of complete reversal of damage, its progression can often be significantly slowed or even halted with appropriate management strategies. This stage represents a point where taking proactive steps can preserve kidney function and support overall health.
What Stage 3 Kidney Disease Means
Stage 3 kidney disease is identified by a measure called the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which indicates how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood. An eGFR between 30 and 59 milliliters per minute per 1.73 square meters (mL/min/1.73m²) signifies Stage 3 CKD. This stage is further divided into two sub-stages: Stage 3a, with an eGFR between 45 and 59 mL/min/1.73m², and Stage 3b, where the eGFR falls between 30 and 44 mL/min/1.73m².
As kidney function declines in Stage 3, waste products can accumulate, potentially leading to symptoms, though some individuals remain asymptomatic. Common symptoms include fatigue, swelling in the hands or feet, changes in urination patterns, back pain, muscle cramps causing sleep problems, high blood pressure, and dry or itchy skin. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to calculate eGFR and urine tests to check for protein, which can indicate kidney damage.
Managing Stage 3 Kidney Disease
Managing Stage 3 kidney disease focuses on slowing its progression and controlling related health issues. Lifestyle modifications are key. Maintaining healthy blood pressure is important, often aiming for levels below 140/90 mmHg, or 130/80 mmHg if diabetes is present. For individuals with diabetes, consistently managing blood sugar levels helps protect kidney function.
A kidney-friendly diet is also important. This often means limiting high sodium foods to manage blood pressure and fluid retention, and reducing phosphorus intake to prevent bone complications. Dietary potassium and protein intake may also need adjustment based on individual lab results, with a healthcare professional or dietitian providing tailored recommendations. Regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and moderating alcohol consumption further contribute to kidney health.
Medications play a significant role in managing Stage 3 CKD. ACE inhibitors or ARBs are frequently prescribed, even for those without high blood pressure, as they help slow kidney damage. Diuretics may be used to reduce fluid retention and swelling. Statins might be recommended for high cholesterol, especially with diabetes or heart disease.
Phosphate binders can help control phosphate levels if diet alone is insufficient. It is also important to avoid certain over-the-counter pain medications, such as NSAIDs, as they can be harmful to the kidneys. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional, including a nephrologist, is essential to track kidney function and adjust treatment plans.
Outlook and Preventing Progression
The outlook for individuals with Stage 3 kidney disease is often favorable, with many living for years without progression to more advanced stages or kidney failure. The primary objective at this stage is to preserve remaining kidney function and prevent further decline.
Several factors can influence an individual’s long-term outlook, including adherence to prescribed treatments, the presence of other health conditions like diabetes or hypertension, and age. Those with Stage 3b CKD, indicating a lower eGFR, may face a slightly higher risk of progression and other health complications compared to those with Stage 3a. Additionally, higher levels of albumin in the urine, detected through specific tests, are associated with a greater risk of kidney disease progression and cardiovascular issues.
Consistent medical appointments, diligent medication adherence, and a commitment to lifestyle adjustments are paramount in preventing progression. While Stage 3 CKD involves moderate kidney damage, proactive management and close collaboration with a healthcare team can help maintain kidney function for an extended period, contributing to overall well-being and a good quality of life.