Nephrologist?

[Conviva22]

Diagnosed with CKD stage 2. NP/PCP don't seem concerned. Should I be contacting a nephrologist or just see what happens next? This is new to me.

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador]

Here is a link from National Kidney Foundation on eGFR and CKD levels, and relation to age. This may be of help in discussion with Doctor. kidney.org/professionals/KD...

[jodaer]

Stage 2 isn't something to be concerned about, especially at your age, but learn everything you can about CKD. Are you diabetic? If so, that would add an extra layer of things to work on. the biggest thing is to get regular lab tests and so you can see where you are and where you might go. Then, the usuals, eat right, exercise. I would suggest you try to move to eating less animal protein, eating clean and stay away from processed foods. Check your meds, both prescribed and OTC to see how they effect the kidneys. That's the goal, to ingest as little as possible of things that effect kidneys. Let us know how you are doing.

[userotc]

I'd agree with jodaer about treating naturally and suggest you consider a qualified Nutritional Therapist specialising in kidney disease/urinary system if you feel you need more help than you can find on here. Natural solutions are the best for CKD, particularly at early stages like yours.

It's admirable that you're questioning if you need a nephro. Sadly many on here have indicated very variable help including for my mum (ckd3) with little/no support in >5y. Probably because nephros are not trained/qualified in nutrition unlike NTs.

[Whitetail66]

When my creatinine level hit the upper limit of normal range, my doctor referred me to a nephrologist. What is your gfr, creatinine levels, BUN number? Your doctor should have done a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, which will show these numbers. If your doctor has done one, look at it, and study it. The tests will have a high and low range that show you what you should be in. I learned how to read my numbers and what the tests mean, by researching on the internet. I also have a sister who is in the medical field, who would help me figure out things to ask. Familiarize yourself with the tests, what they mean, and you will be able to keep track of your kidney function. I do not agree with the comment that at this stage, you don’t have to be concerned. Be concerned, and be proactive, just don’t freak out. At your stage there isn’t any need to freak out, but definitely be concerned. It took me two years to go from kidney function of 62, down to 36. So don’t ignore, or take it lightly that you have kidney disease. Learn everything you can do to stop the progression of the disease. It’s nothing to ‘freak out’ about, but take it seriously, as this will give you the best chance of keeping your kidneys as healthy as possible. Trust me, once you get to a stage where it starts affecting your daily health, you will regret it if you haven’t done everything you can to be good to your kidneys. They will thank you.

Also, nephrologists are notoriously bad at educating their patients. I experienced that with my first nephrologist, who said NOTHING about what to do, other than have a glass of water in the morning. Under his watch, my kidney function went from 61 to 35 in two years. So if you get a nephrologist, make sure that they will be proactive, and not just read your numbers and tell you what your kidney function is at. Bottom line is, the more proactive you are with this disease, the better off you will be. There is a YouTube channel called DadVice TV, which has a lot of great information, and the guy who created it has a pretty inspirational story. Best of luck!

[Hidden]

You have some good advice here, just wanted to add that while you are only Stage 2 at this point, sometimes referrals take time, so asking for a referral now might be a good idea. By the time you get your appointment you will be armed with enough information that you can ask the right questions, read your own labs and figure out if the Doc and you are a good fit. Also if you want a referral to a Renal Dietician, sooner is better than later!

Best of luck to you!