New to kidney failure. Now what?

[Love100cats]

I was only diagnosed about 3 weeks ago followed by Thyroid Failure and Diabetes on top of my two year struggle with heart failure. My shock came from the GFR reading of 25 which I believe puts me at stage 4. Over the last 2 years I've been having regular blood tests for kidney function so find it difficult to understand. Also the diabetic reading. I've been under borderline for years and have low b.p. so why now? My g.p. did reassure me that she knows it's not an eating problem but at the same time warned me that even seeing a specialist would not assure any treatment. I'm almost 79. Anything to do with it? So any useful information that will help me get my head round this is welcome.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

Hi Love100 cats,

Don't let doctors dismiss you like that. There are things you can do to help with your kidney function. I would ask to see a renal dietician and get a meal plan, diet or what ever you want to call it that can help slow any progression of CKD down. I have been at stage 4 for over 2 years and there are lots of us. I would ask the doctor more about the diabetes. As we age, our pancreas does not produce insulin as it should and that is why so MANY older folks are diagnosed with diabetes. It is also big business. Kidneys also lose function as we age. You did not say what your level was before.

You did not say what your A1c level was. Did they prescribe some thing for the diabetes? I do not have answers for you because you need to tell us some more information. But...bottom line, do not let a doctor tell you that seeing a specialist is not warranted. You need support she is not giving you.

[Love100cats in reply to Bassetmommer]

Thank you so much. What a relief to hear that others are at the same stage. I'm going to get my hospital reports and check on past results as I've been having bloods checked for two years now. My g.p. was alarmed at my A1c level but I cant remember what it was. But the first sign of problems was over 6 months ago. I think because my husband was dying they put it on hold then forgot and did nothing. The nurse found two blood test pending forms in my file and she was annoyed and did every test imaginable. My BNP is 4750 which is high but I feel my heart is quite steady at the moment. I know I'm starting on another medical journey but will do all I can to help these old body parts keep going.

[Jayhawker in reply to Love100cats]

I agree; definitely seek out medical support. In addition to a dietician you might ask yo be referred to a nephrologist (Kidney Doctor).

Jayhawker

[Love100cats in reply to Bassetmommer]

Just an update. The hospital phoned and have given me a 1 hour appointment on friday. What are they likely to do.? My test results are creatinine 131, potassium 3.9, GFR 26.5 (down from 33.6 earlier in the year) sodium 142, Urea 16.7. My HbA1c is 52 tsh 5.1 free t4 19.1. Any clue among all that? I'm not looking for medical advice just some ideas of what might be happening.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador in reply to Love100cats]

Hi

The problem with lab results is that they are often just an picture of that particular day. Your GFR may indicate you were more dehydrated since the last labs. That's why most doctors do a series of tests more often. Take a look at the below websites to help you learn about labs results.

kidney.org/atoz/content/kno...

kidney.org/atoz/content/kid...

freseniuskidneycare.com/abo...

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador]

Welcome to the forum. I am age79 and was diagnosed at level 3b 4 years ago. My GP put me on a CKD diet based on blood work other than the eGFR (restricted on sodium, phosphorus and potassium) and a prescribed exercise routine (mainly walking). So far the progression has slowed down. I too have other medical conditions including pre-diabetic. I know some Doctors might take the age factor into consideration, as had a Doctor who did. Best to find a Doctor who will be more open to your age and treatment. If you are in US, I experienced that Medicare does have some restrictions on our medical treatment.

[Love100cats in reply to orangecity41]

Thank you orangecity41. My g.p. has referred me to a London C.inic for help with diabetes which was only confirmed 1 week ago. Immediately I face the question of how many times a week to I exercise for 30 mins?... I wish! With a failing heart and kidneys I find walking around my bungalow tiring. I live alone. My b.p. is 80/50 so I'm not safe to go outside on my own. I dont have family members who can help and because of coronavirus I'm isolated. Not a good picture? So my focus has to be on food and drink. I have an organic shop nearby and they deliver so I'm buying lovely fresh produce to encourage me.

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador in reply to Love100cats]

Your GP should be able to refer you to a Physical Therapist to help with an exercise routine. It may be small but is a start. Chair Yoga class might be a consideration to discuss with your GP. That is nice the organic shop is nearby and delivers.

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador]

Check out kidneyschool.org

Great information.