To Drink or Not to Drink

[LorrieC]

I am getting so many mixed messages regarding the consumption of fluids. About three years ago, my cardio put me on a fluid restricted diet for dialystic dysfunction and because my ankles were beginning to swell. Now, that I have CKD, my internist said to drink as much as I can. I have no problem eliminating the fluid, but still my ankles swell. I believe my ankles swelled when my GFR was above 60 and my creatinine was within the normal range. The nephrologist's office finally called me and I have an appointment on the 26th.

[Charlene_Coxhead]

Lorie you need to stop worrying I know that's hard but your going to drive yourself crazy. You shouldn't be making any restriction regarding fluid and your kidneys you have 60% renal function so really you shouldn't be feeling any side effects of kidneys disease. This is why so many people don't realise they have kidneys disease to stage 4 if not stage 5. I would be very surprised if your ankles are swelling because of your kidneys.

You have an appointment write all these questions down and your worries. We are all here for you,but try to panic your worrying yourself sick. 60% is really good you have to look at it that your glass is over half full and maybe with help from your renal doctor and a dietician it may improve.

Take care and keep us posted

Charlene

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador in reply to Charlene_Coxhead]

Hi Charlene,

I totally agree with you; it's hard not to worry, but Lorrie has decent kidney function.

The edema could have a number of causes. Checking with all specialists and GP on the team is imperative.

I was told to drink to drink to thirst. As long as diet soda and salt are in check, that is key.

Keep in touch..

Bet

[LorrieC in reply to Charlene_Coxhead]

Charlene,

My GFR was 60 or above before my ankles began to swell. My last GFR was 49. Does that mean 49% of my kidneys are functioning? I'm sorry to be such a pest on this forum and asking so many questions, but I appreciate everyone's input!

[Charlene_Coxhead in reply to LorrieC]

Stop right there you are not being a pain you are just learning to come to terms and to get informed. We are all here to help with any questions you have.

I would think your drop could have just been a blip it could have been that you had not drunk enough or your diet was really high in protein these can both effect your creatinine.

Don't ever think you are alone we are all here for you

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador in reply to Charlene_Coxhead]

Well said, Charlene!

Thank you!

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador]

Hi Lorrie,

Check out my reply to Charlene; was intended for both of you.

It is very normal to feel as you do; the important thing is that you watch the sodium and act on this by seeing your specialists and bringing your concerns to them. You are paying them to treat you, but you are your advocate as this is your body.

Write questions down before appointments in a notebook and note responses and suggestions.

Reach out to us at any time..

We all care!

Bet

[lowraind]

You do need members of your healthcare team communicating with each other. That way, you are not caught in the middle.

[LorrieC in reply to lowraind]

That's the problem. They do not communicate. When I tell one what the other says, they "hee-haw" around. I am going to one health system now, so it should be easier for the doctors to see what each recommends, but that's too much work.

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador in reply to lowraind]

Agreed! My GP is local and the metro nephrologists from two different teaching hospitals never sent her visit summaries and labs; forget return her calls..

December 4th I am seeing a metro nephrologist that she has interviewed. He is 20 minutes away. We hope that he will be professional and competent.

The head and tail should know what the other is doing!

[lowraind in reply to Bet117]

As well as everything in between!

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador in reply to lowraind]

You've got it!!