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Real members of MyKidneyDiseaseTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Recently diagnosed with Stage 3 and Im really upset because its like I've spent my life in the doctors office and SUDDENLY I HAVE STAGE 3

A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam Member asked a question đź’­
Bolivar, TN

Nobody caught this before now?? And I actually went for stomach issues and she said IBS-D. What is really going on???

February 26
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Answer Summary

Members shared their frustration about being suddenly diagnosed with Stage 3 chronic kidney disease despite regular medical care, with several... Read more

Members shared their frustration about being suddenly diagnosed with Stage 3 chronic kidney disease despite regular medical care, with several describing how their conditions were initially dismissed or misdiagnosed until they strongly advocated for themselves. Many members opened up about unexpected causes of their kidney disease, including tubular necrosis from unknown trauma, long COVID complications leading to severe arterial plaque in an otherwise healthy runner, and inconsistent kidney numbers that doctors initially attributed to dehydration. A recurring theme was the emotional toll of navigating overwhelmed or dismissive healthcare systems, whether due to insurance barriers in the US or long wait times in the UK, and the importance of self-advocacy, staying present, and finding inner peace while managing an unpredictable chronic condition.

A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam Member

Hey Jenatta, I'm stage 3a. I kept good physical health until 2024. Running everyday, non smoker/ drinker.
Then I caught COVID, in July 2024. Several months later when I was struggling to build up my fitness I got diagnosed with long COVID, soon after I sprained my ankle at work and the x-ray discovered that my arteries in my leg was thick with plaque. They called it Atherosclerosis. Typically brought on by diabetes, being obese, high cholesterol, smoking.
I have none of these things.
I was told that it was equivalent to an 80 year old smokers arteries (I'm currently 46).
Through regular bloods tests my eGFR was showing low numbers.
Recently I was diagnosed with CKD stage 3a.
I can't run daily anymore but I still try from time to time, and I walk daily.

I wish you sustained health 🙏🏻

April 14
A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam Member

Totally understand! I was sick a lot growing up. It wasn’t until we were doing a ton of tests trying to figure out stomach pains that I started pushing with my Drs that my kidney numbers consistently looked off. I was about 30 with no other factors putting me at higher risk for kidney disease. I had a couple Drs brush it off saying that I was probably just dehydrated. It felt like it took a lot of advocating for myself to get anyone to look at my numbers seriously. It’s frustrating. Turns out I’m 3a. It didn’t cause all my other illnesses, but I’m sure it didn’t help.

February 26
MyKidneyDiseaseTeam

How can someone be suddenly diagnosed with stage 3 kidney disease when earlier stages weren't caught?

It's completely understandable to feel upset and confused. One of the most frustrating things about kidney disease is that stages 1 and 2 usually don't have noticeable symptoms. Many people don't realize anything is wrong Show Full Answer

How can someone be suddenly diagnosed with stage 3 kidney disease when earlier stages weren't caught?

It's completely understandable to feel upset and confused. One of the most frustrating things about kidney disease is that stages 1 and 2 usually don't have noticeable symptoms. Many people don't realize anything is wrong until they reach stage 3, when waste and fluid start building up in the blood.

Stage 3 means your kidneys have moderate damage and aren't filtering as well as they should, but they're still working. Your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is likely between 30-59, which indicates reduced kidney function.

The symptoms you might be experiencing could overlap with digestive issues, which may be why you initially went in for stomach concerns. Common stage 3 symptoms include:

* Constantly feeling tired or weak
* Swelling in the face, hands, or feet
* Nausea or upset stomach
* Changes in urination patterns
* Muscle cramps
* Trouble sleeping

The good news is that stage 3 doesn't require dialysis or transplant yet. With proper management and lifestyle changes, many people can slow progression and keep their kidney function stable for years.

A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam member shared: "I was diagnosed in 2015 with stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD). I have watched it diligently since then and have been able to keep it stable."

Talk with your nephrologist about your treatment plan and what steps you can take to protect your kidney function going forward.

February 26
A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam Member

Like you and everyone else here, I'm learning to adjust.
It's not been easy because the Dr's here in the UK have been slow and dismissive because I don't fit the usual criteria and all I'm seeking is answers.

My mind has slowed down with all the stress and worries and I'm choosing to be in the moment.
Not stressing about the future.

My little personal mantra I say to myself everyday is
Mental strength, inner peace
🙏🏻

April 14
A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam Member

YES that is true in a sense. Yes its offered, BUT if we can't come up with the funds it doesn't happen regardless if it's "life saving" or not. Even the government funded insurance you HAVE TO HAVE A JOB or some sort of income to even apply. And because of your age and whether or not you have children, you're not eligible for Medicaid. Some of the states have picked up the Expansion but not all so that means in some states if you're over the age limit, you can still get Medicaid. Its a vicious cycle

April 16

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