Stage 4 kidney disease, also known as stage 4 chronic kidney disease (CKD), signifies a severe loss of kidney function. Specifically, it's defined by a significant decline in the kidneys' ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. This level of kidney dysfunction requires careful management and often leads to various complications.
Understanding Stage 4 CKD
To understand stage 4 kidney disease, consider these points:
- Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): The main way kidney function is measured is by looking at a person's eGFR. This estimates how much blood your kidneys filter each minute.
- eGFR Range for Stage 4 CKD: According to the reference material, a person is diagnosed with stage 4 CKD when their eGFR falls between 15 and 29 milliliters per minute per 1.73m2 (mL/min/1.73 m2) for at least three months.
- Confirmation with Testing: This diagnosis requires confirmation through repeat testing over at least three months to rule out acute kidney injury, which can cause a sudden, temporary loss of kidney function.
Key Characteristics of Stage 4 CKD
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Kidney Function | Severely reduced |
| eGFR Range | 15 to 29 mL/min/1.73 m2 |
| Duration of Reduced eGFR | At least three months confirmed by repeat testing |
| Implications | Increased risk of complications and need for careful medical management |
What happens in Stage 4 Kidney Disease?
As kidney function declines in stage 4, people may experience various symptoms and require medical intervention. Here's what might be involved:
- Symptom Management: Individuals may have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, and changes in urination. These need to be managed effectively.
- Medical Monitoring: Regular monitoring is crucial to manage complications such as anemia, bone disease, and electrolyte imbalances.
- Planning for Renal Replacement Therapy: This stage may require discussing renal replacement therapy options, such as dialysis or kidney transplantation with the healthcare provider.
In summary, Stage 4 kidney disease is serious, characterized by severely decreased kidney function, with an eGFR between 15 and 29, requiring careful management and monitoring to maintain the patient's health and quality of life.
