Am I wrong to be concerned about my Stage 3a CKD?
My eGFR took a drastic drop from 44 to 36. My doctor seems to be very blasé about. I asked if I needed a Nephrologist, or go on a renal diet, she just says “you’re not there yet”. WHERE?? My father lost a kidney to a renal cell carcinoma, and his sister had nephritis I don’t want to get to that point of losing a kidney or needing dialysis. Am I wrong to be worried? Any opinions out there?
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You don’t mention your age but I would be concerned if under 60 and I recommend making an appointment with a nephrologist independently.
Oops, I’m 80. Maybe doctors don’t worry so much about old people, but I’m the sole caretake4 for my 85 year old husband..I can’t get sick!
Caretaker-geez
It’s not that they don’t worry, it that our organs (like everything else 👎) show signs of wear with age. That is why the number expectations or parameters change, depending on age. The other thing they consider is how quickly your numbers are changing. For instance if it took 5 years to get where you are, the progression may be slow, therefore not as concerning as a rapid change.
It’s awful that you don’t feel cared about. I’m really sorry!
My doctor has ordered an ultrasound of my kidneys. But I still don’t understand why she wouldn’t give me any advice on some dietary changes that might help. She knows that I am stressing about my numbers. I guess I’m expecting too much. I may still ask for a nephrology referral.
Get a different doctor NOW!! Be proactive and take care of YOU.
Your doctor sounds incompetent.
If your insurance requires a referral to a nephrologist get one. If not, please find yourself a good one. I think it may help you to feel better after consulting with one. Best wishes for better health and days ahead.
I would definitely go to a nephrologist. I am 82 year old male at CKD stage 4 and my nephrologist is monitoring me every 6 months. My egfr is about 32 but fluctuates. I do not want to end up on dialysis. You want a specialist keeping a close eye on this.