Stage 3: A Critical Turning Point with Moderate Kidney Function Decline
Stage 3 CKD is characterized by a moderate decrease in kidney function, with a GFR between 30 and 59 mL/min/1.73 m². At this stage, patients may begin to experience more noticeable symptoms as the kidneys struggle to filter waste and excess fluid effectively.
Common symptoms during stage 3 CKD may include fatigue, swelling in the legs and ankles, back pain, and changes in urine color and frequency. Additionally, patients may experience elevated blood pressure and difficulty managing blood sugar levels due to the decreased kidney function.
It’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare team to manage these symptoms and address any underlying health issues contributing to kidney damage. This may involve adjusting medications, implementing dietary changes, and monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels more closely.
As kidney function declines further in stage 3, patients may be at increased risk for complications such as anemia, bone disease, and cardiovascular problems. To prevent or manage these complications, your healthcare provider may recommend additional medications or treatments, such as iron supplements for anemia or phosphate binders for bone health. (3)
