Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney function over time. It’s divided into five stages, with stage 3 being a moderate form of the disease. In this stage, the kidneys have suffered mild to moderate damage, reducing their ability to filter waste and fluid from the blood[5]. This stage is further divided into two sub-stages: Stage 3a (eGFR of 45-59) and Stage 3b (eGFR of 30-44)[2][10].

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common causes of CKD are diabetes and high blood pressure[1][9]. Other risk factors include heart disease, obesity, smoking, and certain genetic factors[1][4]. Long-term use of certain medications and defects in kidney structure can also contribute to kidney disease[1].

Symptoms

In stage 3 CKD, symptoms may start to become noticeable. These can include fatigue, fluid retention, swelling of extremities, changes in urination, kidney pain, sleep problems due to muscle cramps or restless legs, and nausea[2][5]. However, some people may not experience symptoms even at this stage[9].

Treatment Options

While CKD cannot be cured, its progression can be slowed with appropriate treatments. These include ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and SGLT2 inhibitors[7]. Treatment usually aims to control signs and symptoms, reduce complications, and slow the progression of the disease[3]. If the kidneys become severely damaged, treatment for end-stage kidney disease may be necessary, which could involve dialysis or a kidney transplant[3].

Prevention Tips

Preventing the progression of CKD involves managing risk factors and making lifestyle changes. Regular check-ups are crucial, especially for those with diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure[4][8]. Healthy eating, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking can also help protect the kidneys[4][8][12]. It’s also important to take medications as directed and manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels[8][10].

Conclusion

Stage 3 CKD is a serious condition that requires careful management. If you’re experiencing any symptoms or have risk factors for kidney disease, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to slow the progression of CKD and maintain a good quality of life.

Citations:

[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20354521
[2] https://www.davita.com/education/kidney-disease/stages/stage-3-of-chronic-kidney-disease
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354527
[4] https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd/prevention
[5] https://www.kidneyfund.org/all-about-kidneys/stages-kidney-disease/stage-3-chronic-kidney-disease-ckd
[6] https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-stage-3-kidney-disease-life-expectancy
[7] https://my.mykidneyjourney.com/en-my/chronic-kidney-disease/ckd-stage-3
[8] https://www.cdc.gov/kidneydisease/prevention-risk.html
[9] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/stage-3-kidney-disease
[10] https://www.freseniuskidneycare.com/kidney-disease/stages/stage-3
[11] https://www.verywellhealth.com/stage-3-chronic-kidney-disease-5223122
[12] https://www.kidney.org/prevention/7-golden-rules-of-prevention
[13] https://www.kidneyfund.org/all-about-kidneys/stages-kidney-disease
[14] https://www.health.com/stage-3-kidney-disease-7546533
[15] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/treatment/
[16] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/prevention/
[17] https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/stage-3a-chronic-kidney-disease-ckd
[18] https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/about-chronic-kidney-disease
[19] https://www.healthline.com/health/stage-3-kidney-disease
[20] https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd/causes