I also have stage 3a CKD. I was diagnosed when my primary care physician noticed a consistent decrease in the eGFR marker on bloodwork and referred me to a nephrologist to check my kidneys.

I was lucky to find a great doctor who took care in learning my medical history. She determined that the cause of my kidney issue was taking an anti-inflammatory medication Meloxican daily (as prescribed by an orthopedic doctor for knee arthritis). The medication can be harmful to kidneys for some people, and for me it was. My kidney function was eGFR was 47 when I began seeing the nephrologist. Normal is 60 and above.

Here are the most important things I was told to do to care for kidneys:

1. DO NOT take NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). This applies to OTC and prescription drugs.
If you have pain Tylenol is safe for kidneys.
2. Reduce sodium intake, aim for less than 2,300 milligrams daily
3. Drink plenty of water and eat lots of vegetables and fruits
4. There are many OTC medications, prescription medications, herbal supplements, supplements containing
potassium, supplements containing phosphorus, and intravenous dyes that must be avoided for CKD
patients. Ask your pharmacist or kidney specialist if you have questions about something you want to take.

I implemented this advice and after one year I actually had an improvement in my kidney function. My eGFR is now 58. I hope this information is helpful to you. I was pretty scared when I heard I had kidney disease, but at stage 3a there are many things you can do to help you protect your kidneys. Good luck to you!