Can stage 3 CKD progression be slowed at age 44?

Question

Hello doctor,

In my previous test, my creatinine level was 2.1 mg/dl, and my glomerular filtration rate was 34 ml/minute per square meter. The nephrologist said I am at Stage 3 CKD. I monitor my BP and blood sugar daily, and my last HbA1c was 7.2%, which is not perfect but better than before. I am terrified of dialysis, honestly.

The thought of it makes me anxious. Can someone aged 44 with stage 3 CKD still avoid dialysis long term if they do everything right from here, or has the damage already gone too far?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Yes. Just being 44 years old with Stage 3 CKD does not necessarily mean that dialysis is inevitable. There are quite a number of people with an estimated glomerular filtration Rate (eGFR) around 34 who have lived many years without dialysis simply by controlling their blood pressure and blood glucose levels, and by adhering to their doctor’s advice.

Your hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 7.2% shows improvement. Continuing to control blood pressure and blood sugar, avoiding kidney-harming medications, and following up regularly with your nephrologist can significantly slow progression.

So, the damage is not necessarily too far gone. Stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a stage where there is still a lot that can be done to preserve kidney function. Focus on what you can control and take it one step at a time with your kidney specialist.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer.

Thank you.