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Chronic kidney disease (CKD) support: Introduce yourself and connect
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) | Last Active: 1 day ago | Replies (135)Comment receiving replies
Hi, I just joined. I was diagnosed with stage 3 five years ago at 56 Gfr. Its dropped to 44 stage 3b. I showed more concern than my PA. She referred me to a dietitian to watch my salt 200mg or less per meal. I think I was in denial until my numbers kept dropping. Now I am worried. I have an appt for an ultrasound and with a nephrologist in 3 weeks. What are good some questions to ask him? Thanks, Donna
Replies to "Hi, I just joined. I was diagnosed with stage 3 five years ago at 56 Gfr...."
@ddon Questions to ask. Hopefully this may help. I had my own visit with my nephrologist yesterday. My own journey is into its’ third year with CKD and post-surgery to remove one kidney. My eGFR dropped from 51 to 41 in past six months. I always ask: 1. What should I be doing? 2. What should I not be doing? The answers always center around A. Control your blood pressure B. Reduce your salt intake C. Drink water, stay hydrated D. Stay active, exercise as you are able. As I stay close to these ideals my numbers (eGFR) will go up when I see the nephrologist again in a few months. Blessings.
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@ddon Donna, welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect, and our kidney support group!
You're smart to be thinking of questions/concerns to ask your nephrologist. A basic thing to figure out is why you are experiencing the drop in kidney function. Possible reasons are long-term side effects of medications, or diabetes, or high blood pressure, or lifestyle. Once you have an idea, you will be more aware of how to move forward and treat it.
My suggestions of things to ask is how best to advocate for yourself, best diet plan for your circumstances, what future actions can you take as a patient. Remember, we are all here for you, and as you read through the conversations, you will want to filter information as it might pertain to your own circumstances. For example, I had to tailor my diet plan to include the fact I have gout, so there are things approved for a kidney diet that I simply cannot have because of the gout. Things like that.
Ginger