STAGE 4 KIDNEY DISEASE

Stage 4 kidney disease is an advanced stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD) where kidney function is significantly impaired, functioning at 15-29% of normal capacity. It hampers health by causing a buildup of waste products and fluid in the body, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, high blood pressure, anaemia, bone problems, and an increased risk of complications. Treatment aims to slow progression and prepare for renal replacement therapy, such as dialysis or transplant.

In Stage 4 Kidney Disease, the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is significantly reduced, typically ranging from 15 to 29 millilitres per minute (mL/min).

This stage indicates severe kidney damage, with kidneys functioning at less than 30% capacity.

Patients often require medical intervention, dietary changes, and close monitoring to manage symptoms and slow the progression of kidney disease.

The five stages of Kidney DiseaseThe five stages of Kidney Disease

Causes of Stage 4 Kidney Disease

Diabetes- One of the causes of chronic kidney disease is diabetes.

Improper kidney functioning doesn’t allow the body to make enough insulin to be absorbed by the cells.

Hence, the glucose levels remain high, damaging the blood vessels.

It doesn’t allow the kidneys to function correctly, accumulating waste and unwanted liquids in the body.

High Blood Pressure– High blood pressure is a significant cause of chronic kidney disease.

It leads to a pressurising flow of blow in the blood vessels. The arteries near the kidneys get narrow or hardened, making it difficult for the organ to receive blood.

Glomerulonephritis– It is inflammation of the glomeruli leading to kidney damage. Hence, the blood vessels inside the kidney cannot filter waste from blood. Accumulating toxins and excessive liquid in the kidneys damages the organ and gradually increases its size.

GlomerulonephritisGlomerulonephritis

Polycystic Kidney Disease – An inherited condition where cysts form in the kidneys, affecting their structure and function. This leads to enlargement of kidneys and impairment of their function. In some patients it may progress to advanced kidney failure.

Autoimmune Diseases – Conditions such as lupus or vasculitis can cause kidney inflammation and damage.

Obstruction – Kidney stones, tumours, or structural issues can obstruct urine flow and harm kidney function.

Symptoms of Stage 4 Kidney Disease

Heart Disease- Heart disease is one of the significant and damaging stage 4 kidney disease symptoms. When the kidneys cannot function properly, the heart has to pump the blood faster. Hence, pressure is created on the organ, causing multiple heart diseases.

Dry Skin– Though it may sound weird, dry skin is also one of the signs of this disease. It happens due to high calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood due to improper functioning of the kidneys. The situation leads to cells in the body releasing histamine, causing itchy and dry skin.

Weakness– Weakness is also one of the symptoms of chronic kidney disease. It happens due to improper functioning of the kidneys and the build-up of waste and toxins in the body. The weakness doesn’t allow the affected patient to perform routine functions with ease. Hence, liability should not always be considered an ordinary health sign as it can have profound meaning as well.

Muscle Cramp– Sudden muscle cramps or twitching of muscles is also a sign of the disease. It happens when the toxins hit the bones and muscles, causing severe pain and cramps in the muscles. Sometimes, it may also cause a loss of sensation in certain parts of the body due to improper liquid filtration.

Loss of Appetite– Loss of appetite is also a cause of the disease. It happens due to improper liquid filtration, causing multiple other health issues. The affected individual doesn’t feel the urge to have proper and nutritious meals. In case of severe symptoms, sometimes a patient may also experience sudden weight loss.

High Blood Pressure – Often challenging to control, contributing to further kidney damage.

Anaemia – A shortage of red blood cells, leading to weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

Bone Problems – Kidney disease can lead to mineral imbalances, affecting bone health.

Nausea and Vomiting – The buildup of waste products in the blood can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms.

Itching (Pruritus) – Accumulation of toxins can cause itching of the skin.

Changes in Urination – Urinary changes include increased or decreased urine output, foamy urine, or dark-coloured urine.

Treatment Options for Stage 4 Kidney Disease

Medications- Doctors prescribe medicines to treat the underlying cause of the issue. Drugs to heal high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, or calcium issues are suggested by doctors to treat the underlying cause and overall lower the symptoms of stage 4 kidney disease.

Dietary Changes– Switching frozen foods with fresh fruits, packed foods with homemade meals, and junk food with greens is a healthy switch to heal chronic kidney disease. Healthy food choices help in quicker healing of the organ and allow one to resume normal routine functions with ease. The changes should not just be temporary but a part of life to avoid recurrence of the issue.