Connect
← Return to Am I wrong to be concerned about my Stage 3a CKD?
Discussion
Am I wrong to be concerned about my Stage 3a CKD?
Kidney & Bladder | Last Active: 50 minutes ago | Replies (32)Comment receiving replies
I see a nephrologist for what was originally diagnosed as CKD 3b then went to 3a. I’ve not been given any medication other than Olmesartan which was added to my other two BP medications. My eGFR fluctuates going into the normal range and then dropping substantially. I had a heart attack and had to have 5 stents placed. I too have asked about medications and nothing else has been prescribed. She has never spoken to me about diet. My major problem is that my protein intake my 24 hour urine is in the high 600’s. Nephrologist wants to do a kidney biopsy to check for lupus nephritis but my cardiologist will not let me stop my 2 baby aspirin per day to have it done due to the stents. I do have rheumatoid arthritis and see a rheumatologist. I’m just so frustrated because I feel something needs to be done to make sure I don’t have lupus nephritis. Anyone have any suggestions. I’m frustrated with every specialist I’ve seen for what seems to me to be inaction. I’m 70 years old.
Replies to "I see a nephrologist for what was originally diagnosed as CKD 3b then went to 3a...."
I agree with @quiltergirl2 in that it is really “difficult when your medical team are at odds with your treatment”. That can be a more likely problem when you have more than one condition to deal with. I have made a point of using a large health system where the specialists all have access to the same records, can collaborate and generally are supportive of each other. Unfortunately sometimes a specialty has the opinion that their area should have highest priority. In your situation hearts are very important but so are kidneys. I like the suggestion to get a second opinion. Could you do that? Could you ask the nephrologist if there are other tests to resort to besides kidney biopsy to get answers regarding lupus nephritis? (I’ve had kidney biopsies; they aren’t fun!). I’ve never had any heart problems, thank God! But I did join the masses of people that started a low dose aspirin to protect myself from heart problems and stroke. I think that was many years ago at the advice of my nephrologist. A few years back the same nephrologist told me to discontinue it because the new thinking is that the risk of hemorrhages is greater than the risk of heart attack or stroke! It is hard to be a compliant patient when scientific opinions change over time!
Connect
I’m sorry you’re going through that. It’s so difficult when your medical team are at odds with your treatment. Wishing you the best of luck with your treatment. Perhaps second opinions with another cardiologist? I understand the doctor not wanting you to be off the aspirin but is it that dangerous for a short time? I’m no doctor but I wouldn’t think it would be that serious for just a few days—only my opinion. Take care and I’m hoping for the best for you.