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Is kidney disease becoming an epidemic
Kidney & Bladder | Last Active: Feb 19, 2023 | Replies (36)Comment receiving replies
@codered032 Sitting with this question overnight, I pondered what to say. I would like to think that members of the medical community are finally seeing how important it is to keep track of kidney issues. How much our kidneys do, and how our general health can be affected when they misbehave. How so many other conditions can have a trickle down effect on the kidney function, and the connection of co-morbidities. It is my opinion only, that nephrology is not stressed enough in the general medical education years.
We are developing a new type of patient, well-informed and self-advocating, willing to push for complete care. Willing to look at trends, and education in our kidney disease. And willing to share the solid information we discover, with others. It is a win-win for us patients, but may be a thorn in the side of medical practitioners who would rather focus on something else. We owe it to ourselves to be the best we can.
Ginger
Replies to "@codered032 Sitting with this question overnight, I pondered what to say. I would like to think..."
Thank you so much for your reply. I was informed I was a stone maker to you are in CKD stage 3a. Why wasn’t I informed sooner, like stage 1. I could have radically changed my diet and perhaps not advanced. Next week I have my 4th kidney stone removal surgery in 18 months, and there will be more.
I agree that some doctors don’t like patients that are well informed and advocate for themselves.
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Ginger I agree with your encouragement. I was on vacation and happen to over hear a frantic woman in tears because she was newly diagnosed and couldn’t get a follow up appointment with her nephrologist for six months. She was told that she was 3b and had no idea what that ment. She reminded me of myself when I was first diagnosed. I shared the Mayo Clinic peer website and what little information I knew. I encouraged her to educate herself and become her best advocate. I stumbled upon this site and I have learned so much from all who shared information. I literally have to request frequent lab work form my nephrologist and ask questions when necessary. Thankfully the doctors are now getting paid for telemedicine visits, which has helped me keep in contact with my doctor. Unfortunately I don’t have a medical team working together so I have to be my own advocate between all of my Dr. Including my pharmacist and my dentist. I am so thankful that I found this group.