Stage 4 Chronic kidney disease: Symptoms & Treatment

Kidney disease is a serious health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Stage 4 kidney disease is a severe form of chronic kidney disease (CKD), in which the kidneys have lost almost 85-90% of their function. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms as well as treatment options for stage 4 kidney disease.

Symptoms of Stage 4 Kidney Disease:

The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and producing hormones. As kidney function deteriorates, symptoms can become more severe. Common symptoms of stage 4 disease include:

1. Fatigue and weakness
2. Shortness of breath
3. Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
4. Changes in appetite
5. Nausea and vomiting
6. Difficulty sleeping
7. Urinating more or less frequently than usual
8. Itchy skin and dryness
9. Muscle cramps and twitches
10. Difficulty concentrating

Treatment for Stage 4 Disease:

While stage 4 kidney disease is a severe condition, there are treatment options available to help slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms.

1. Medications: Medications can be used to manage symptoms such as high blood pressure, anemia, and high cholesterol. In some cases, medications can also help slow the progression of kidney disease.
2. Dialysis: Dialysis is a medical treatment that removes waste and excess fluids from the blood. It can be done at a hospital or a dialysis center.
3. Kidney transplant: A kidney transplant is an option for some people with stage 4 kidney disease. Moreover, it involves surgically replacing a damaged kidney with a healthy kidney from a donor.
4. Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms as well as slow the progression of kidney disease. These changes include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake.
5. Clinical Trials: There are also clinical trials available for new medications and treatments that may help manage symptoms and slow the progression of kidney disease.

Stage 4 disease is a severe form of CKD that can lead to many symptoms and complications. Early detection, as well as treatment, are essential to managing symptoms, slowing the progression of the disease, and improving quality of life. However, if you are experiencing any symptoms of kidney disease, it is essential to speak with your healthcare provider to discuss testing and treatment options.