Finding out you're at stage 3 out of the blue can feel like a lot to take in — but the good news is that at this stage, dialysis or a transplant isn't needed yet, and there's real opportunity to slow things down.
Stage 3 means your kidneys have moderate damage and aren't filtering as well as they should. It's split into two Show Full Answer
Finding out you're at stage 3 out of the blue can feel like a lot to take in — but the good news is that at this stage, dialysis or a transplant isn't needed yet, and there's real opportunity to slow things down.
Stage 3 means your kidneys have moderate damage and aren't filtering as well as they should. It's split into two parts:
- Stage 3a — eGFR between 45 and 59
- Stage 3b — eGFR between 30 and 44 Even without treatment right now, there are important steps worth discussing with a doctor. These typically include:
- Monitoring kidney function regularly with blood and urine tests
- Managing blood pressure, as high blood pressure can speed up kidney damage
- Watching your diet — reducing salt, protein, and potassium as advised
- Staying hydrated but not overdoing fluids
- Avoiding medications that can harm kidneys, like certain pain relievers (always check with your doctor first)
A nephrologist (kidney specialist) can help figure out the best plan for your specific situation. Getting a referral sooner rather than later is really worthwhile at stage 3. As one MyKidneyDiseaseTeam member shared, being diagnosed with stage 3 and watching it diligently since 2015 helped them keep it stable. Early action really can make a difference. 💙
June 3
Don't wait. I was at Stage 4 when I was diagnosed. Now at 10% kidney function and on dialysis.
June 3
Never too late! Maybe transplant??
June 6
Start doing what you need to do me it was too late for me
June 6
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