Experience w/stage 5
My father's nephrologist never seems concerned about his kidneys that are on the border of stage 5. He's even said he has patients at egfr of 10 and he won't put them on dialysis as long as they feel fine.
Why is it then that when i research online everything i have read states you only have days to weeks with stage 5 ckd?
Does anyone have any experience with stage 5 ckd and no dialysis? Anyone hear the same thing dad has?
Thanks for the help.
I did find this article just now. https://homedialysis.org/life-at-home/articles/when-to-start-dialysis
That about right?
Hi
, thanks for your question! It may differ person to person, as everyone's situations are unique. I hope people might chime in to share their experiences with you. I know started dialysis in the past year, I'm not sure what her eGFR was when she started, if she feels comfortable sharing. But this article might be helpful: https://chronic-kidney-disease.net/living/manage-mental-health, as she does mention not yet starting dialysis while having an eGFR of 9. If you are concerned, it also might be worth seeking a second opinion to get another perspective on your father's management plan. In addition to the link you shared and also this link might be of interest to you: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK492982. It does seem like generally, the symptoms one is experiencing with CKD may be a more important indicator than eGFR alone. I hope this may help. Warmly, Minel (Team Member)
Hi Doug,
I am currently in stage 5 with a egfr at 14. I am being monitored by a nephrologist who says we don't do a kidney transplant until 8-10 gfr.
Although kidney disease can appear different in everyone, it depends on the symptoms and bloodwork what the steps taken are when treating kidney failure.
Stage 5 is not a death sentence. Dialysis is begun if the symptoms are interferring with everyday living. If your father is feeling fine, they may forgo dialsysis because once it is begun, it can't be stopped. The only relief from dialysis is a transplant.
I am stage 5 and am just beginning to experience more prominent symptoms of aches and pains, itching, high potassium, headaches and brain fog.
It sounds like your dad is being treated well and I hope you don't worry too much. I know it's stressful but you'll both get through it.
Hope this helps a bit 😀
