First Post

Hello, First post here, but, I do post elsewhere on HU in heart forums.

After reading other posts, I suppose I have a question and curious as to if or when a kidney specialist would become involved in someone's treatment?

I'll readily admit I'm a bit ignorant on kidney matters, the heart is probably my forte, but, I do understand the link between the two.

I've had multiple heart valve surgeries, one had many complications, including my eGfr tanking to mid 30's, that was 10 years ago. It's stayed in that region since, but, occasionally dipping into Stage 4. Its currently at 32.

I now have Heart Failure with reduced Ejection Fraction so on Bisoprolol, Entresto and Dapagliflozin. Cardiology seem happy enough that the meds aren't causing a problem, I have bloods taken regularly, Potassium is a bit of a problem at times. Creatine is around 150 mark. To be fair I'm monitored quite closely with regular bloods taken by GP or hospital.

So, if they're happy, I'm happy, but, should I be?

I'm in the UK if that makes any difference.

[jodaer]

You have a lot on your plate, but it would be in your own best interest to get up to speed on CKD. Know everything about it. Being monitored is good but I think i would want to get a neph opinion also. If you had a neph would you take cardio advice from him or would you want a cardiologist?

[Bingo88]

Good morning Heedio61. In the uk they don't usually start referring you to a kidney specialist until your Egfr is declining and your having regular checks to see everything is staying stable over a long time. So you must be doing something right. Ie. Diet and keeping your weight down and exercise. There's no harm in just asking the question about referral to your g.p doctor if your worried and see what they say. Brian

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador]

Check out kidneyschool.org lots of information Blessings

[bumblebee_tuna]

Keep in mind that Dapagliflozin causes a drop an GFR when you start taking it, the drug is renal protective (as protecting your heart).