Stage 3 Kidney Disease vs Stage 3 Kidney Failure. Stage 3 kidney disease and stage 3 kidney failure refer to different aspects of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Stage 3 kidney disease is the third of five stages of CKD, which are determined based on the level of kidney function as measured by the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and the amount of protein in the urine (albuminuria).

In stage 3 kidney disease, the GFR ranges from 30 to 59 mL/min/1.73m², indicating moderate kidney damage and a significant reduction in kidney function. However, at this stage, the kidneys are still able to perform their essential functions, such as filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood, and regulating electrolyte balance. Stage 3 kidney failure, on the other hand, refers to a more advanced stage of CKD in which the kidneys are no longer able to perform their essential functions adequately.

Specifically, stage 3 kidney failure refers to a GFR of 30-59 mL/min/1.73m² with evidence of kidney damage, as indicated by the presence of protein in the urine. At this stage, the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood effectively, leading to a buildup of toxins and fluid in the body.

As a result, individuals with stage 3 kidney failure may experience symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and changes in urine output. In summary, while both stage 3 kidney disease and stage 3 kidney failure indicate a moderate level of kidney damage and reduced kidney function, stage 3 kidney failure represents a more severe form of kidney disease where the kidneys are no longer able to perform their essential functions adequately.

Living With Stage 3 Kidney Disease

Living with stage 3 kidney disease can vary depending on the individual, the underlying cause of the disease, and the severity of the condition. However, there are some common experiences and challenges that people with stage 3 kidney disease may face, including:

1. Fatigue: People with stage 3 kidney disease may experience fatigue due to anemia (low red blood cell count), which can occur as a result of decreased kidney function.
   
   
2. Changes in urination: Individuals with stage 3 kidney disease may experience changes in the frequency, amount, or color of their urine due to decreased kidney function.
   
   
3. Fluid retention: The kidneys play an important role in regulating fluid balance in the body, so people with stage 3 kidney disease may experience fluid retention, which can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands.
   
   
4. Diet restrictions: Depending on the underlying cause of their kidney disease, individuals with stage 3 kidney disease may need to follow a special diet that restricts certain foods or nutrients.
   
   
5. Medications: People with stage 3 kidney disease may need to take medications to manage symptoms, such as high blood pressure or anemia, or to slow the progression of the disease.
   
   
6. Increased risk of complications: People with stage 3 kidney disease are at increased risk of complications such as infections, kidney stones, and cardiovascular disease.
   
   
7. Emotional impact: Living with a chronic condition can take a toll on a person's mental health and well being. It's important for individuals with stage 3 kidney disease to address any emotional or psychological concerns with their healthcare team.
   
   

It's essential for individuals with stage 3 kidney disease to work closely with their healthcare team to manage their condition, follow any recommended treatment plans, and make lifestyle changes that can help slow the progression of the disease. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are also critical to ensure that the disease is managed effectively.

Living With Stage 3 Kidney Failure

Stage 3 kidney failure, also known as stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD), is a more advanced stage of kidney disease where the kidneys are not functioning as well as they should be. At this stage, the kidneys are unable to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood adequately, leading to a buildup of toxins and fluid in the body. Here are some of the things that someone with stage 3 kidney failure can expect:

1. Symptoms: As kidney function declines, a person with stage 3 kidney failure may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, and swollen feet and ankles. They may also experience changes in urination, such as decreased urine output or more frequent urination at night.
   
   
2. Medical treatment: A healthcare provider may prescribe medications to manage symptoms such as high blood pressure or anemia. They may also recommend lifestyle changes such as following a kidney-friendly diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise.
   
   
3. Monitoring: Individuals with stage 3 kidney failure will need to undergo regular monitoring to assess the progression of their disease. This may include blood and urine tests to evaluate kidney function and check for the presence of protein or other abnormalities.
   
   
4. Complications: People with stage 3 kidney failure are at increased risk of developing complications such as infections, kidney stones, anemia, and bone disease. They may also be at increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
   
   
5. Potential for progression: While it's possible to slow the progression of kidney disease, stage 3 kidney failure is a sign that the disease is advancing. Without proper management, it can progress to more advanced stages of CKD or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which may require dialysis or kidney transplantation.
   
   

Individuals with stage 3 kidney failure to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their condition and take steps to slow the progression of the disease. Making lifestyle changes, such as following a kidney-friendly diet and getting regular exercise, can help preserve kidney function and reduce the risk of complications. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are also essential to ensure that the disease is managed effectively.

Are There Treatments For Stage 3 Kidney Failure & Stage 3 Kidney Failure

There are treatments available for both stage 3 kidney disease and stage 3 kidney failure. The goal of treatment is to slow the progression of the disease, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. Here are some of the treatments that may be recommended:

1. Medications: Depending on the underlying cause of the kidney disease, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as high blood pressure or anemia, or to slow the progression of the disease.
   
   
2. Lifestyle changes: Making certain lifestyle changes, such as following a kidney-friendly diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise, can help preserve kidney function and reduce the risk of complications.
   
   
3. Dialysis: In cases of advanced kidney failure, dialysis may be needed to help filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
   
   
4. Kidney transplant: A kidney transplant may be an option for some people with advanced kidney disease or kidney failure. This involves replacing the diseased kidney with a healthy one from a donor.
   
   
5. Clinical trials: In some cases, individuals with kidney disease may be eligible to participate in clinical trials, which can provide access to new treatments or therapies that are not yet widely available.
   
   

It's important to note that the specific treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause and severity of the kidney disease, as well as other individual factors such as age, overall health, and personal preferences. It's essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.