What is stage 4 kidney disease symptoms and is it the same things as End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)?
What is stage 4 kidney disease symptoms and is it the same things as End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)?
Stage 4 kidney disease, also
known as advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), is characterized by a
significant decrease in kidney function, with a glomerular filtration rate
(GFR) between 15 and 29 ml/min. At this stage, individuals may experience more
pronounced symptoms than in earlier stages. Common symptoms of stage 4 kidney
disease include:
1. Fatigue: Patients may feel
extremely tired and lacking in energy due to the kidneys' decreased ability to
remove waste and toxins from the body.
2. Fluid retention: The kidneys'
impaired function can lead to fluid buildup, causing swelling in the legs,
ankles, and around the eyes.
3. Changes in urine output: Individuals
may notice changes in the frequency and amount of urine produced. Urine may
appear foamy or contain blood.
4. Hypertension (high blood
pressure): Kidney function plays a crucial role in regulating blood
pressure. As kidney function declines, blood pressure may rise.
5. Electrolyte imbalances: The
kidneys help maintain a balance of electrolytes in the body. With reduced
kidney function, imbalances in electrolytes such as potassium and phosphorus
may occur, leading to complications.
It's important to note that stage 4 kidney disease is considered
severe, but it is not the same as end-stage renal disease (ESRD). End-stage
renal disease is the final stage of chronic kidney disease, with a GFR below 15
ml/min or the need for renal replacement therapy, such as dialysis or kidney
transplantation.
Individuals with stage 4 kidney disease are often closely
monitored by healthcare professionals to manage symptoms and slow down the
progression of kidney damage. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes,
medication, and careful management of comorbid conditions like hypertension and
diabetes. As kidney disease progresses to stage 5 (ESRD), more intensive
interventions become necessary to replace the lost kidney function.
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