24 hour Urine collection.

[elithomson]

I have CKD stage4/5. I have just had a Fistula made a couple of weeks ago but getting different opinions from the doctors. Kidney function is 15%. Now, I am told because I am only 4.11 tall or short, My readings may not be accurate due to less muscle mass than a taller person. I now need to do a 24 hour urine collection for a true reading. Does height really matter in this instance? Thank you for listening to my moans but feedback will be truly appreciated.

[defier]

Hi there, my understanding is that a person's body mass index (bmi) is important. The standard readings and ratios out there-for example for the 5 stages of ckd are based on average height and weight, and also one's age makes a difference, as kidney function declines (though not dramatically)naturally as we get older. So yes, I would think the fact that you are well under average height (as am I) should be taken into consideration. Take care and let us know how you get on.

[elithomson]

Thank you for your info. I'm 65 years old and overweight to boot! I didn't realise many of these factors kicked in. Unfortunately I have had little or no support from hospital or surgery and the internet is my only reference. Many thanks for your worthwhile reply.

[defier]

Hi again, are you in the UK? I have only very recently been diagnosed (age 60) and already I am appalled at the lack of knowledge and interest from my GP. I have seen a urologist but as all of my notes and scans had been mislaid the appointment was a waste of time. You must be seeing a nephrologist if your function is 15%? You have the right to request a second opinion if you are not confident with the advice you're getting - though waiting for even more appointments will be frustrating! I think as individuals we do have to be assertive and be open with the medics about any concerns we have over treatment. I waited for a week for my GP to do a referral letter (which is the click of a button on the commuter.) I had telephoned 4 days in a row, asking if he had done it. On the 5th day I telephoned and said 'this referral is being done today. I'm coming in and WILL see the doctor!!' They gave me an appointment for later that day, I went in and hey presto the referral was done. It really is a postcode lottery. My friend has diabetes with declining kidney function. She lives 50 miles away from me and has had superb treatment from concerned medics all the way through. For my next appointment I have put my questions down on paper so I don't forget anything. Hope your next appointment gives you some useful answers.

[elithomson]

Thank you defier. I live in Dundee Scotland and its a joke. I was asked at one appointment to choose which form of dialysis I prefer! Knowing nothing about other forms I agreed to haemo. Still unaware of the pitfalls, I was whisked in and had a fistula done three weeks ago. Trouble is in these large hospitals you never see the same Nephrologist twice. I'm still in the dark albeit with a sore arm! This sight is my only available support it seems. Aah the joys of the NHS!

[Viviola]

Hi. I am at Stage 5 and eGFR is now 14%. I am surprised they have fitted a fistula as despite my low function I am nowhere near needing dialysis. I do know height and weight etc have a bearing on things which is probably why they've asked for a 24 hr urine sample. You need to badger your consultant for as much information as possible. If you still feel that you're getting nowhere contact one of the renal counsellors - all renal units have them. I had issues myself and felt I was getting nowhere so asked my counsellor to speak to the consultant on my behalf. Surprise surprise I am now treated with a little more respect and humanity and I don't leave the appointment until I'm satisfied that I have had all my questions/concerns answered. Obviously don't blow your stack as you need them on your side but don't be fobbed off. When I reached 15% I was told to think about dialysis and transplant. I had visits from both experts in haemo and PD and also got invited to a patient information session where I got to meet others who were having both types of dialysis so I was able to ask them questions which made it easier to make an informed decision. Keep asking questions and good luck. x

[Tiki02]

I am in Greece and the first set of tests included a 24 hour urine test, kidney scans and blood test. can't fault the treatment but I don't always understand the gorgon and abrieviations. Is there a post or site that explains these and the normal scores. I am not even sure at what stage I am at and which test deter mains this. Partly a language thing as well.