N18.3

Clinical Causes: High blood pressure (hypertension) Diabetes mellitus Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney filters) Polycystic kidney disease Repeated urinary tract infections Obstruction of urinary tract Long-term use of certain medications like NSAIDs Other underlying health conditions that impair kidney function

Key Symptoms: Swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands due to fluid retention Fatigue and weakness Changes in urination patterns (more or less frequent, foamy urine) Shortness of breath Persistent itching Muscle cramps Nausea or loss of appetite High blood pressure that is difficult to control

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis of CKD stage 3 involves a combination of blood and urine tests. Key assessments include measuring the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), which typically ranges from 30 to 59 ml/min/1.73 m² for stage 3. Additional tests such as urine protein levels and imaging studies like ultrasound may be conducted to evaluate kidney size and structure. Regular monitoring is essential to assess disease progression and manage complications effectively.

Treatment Protocols: While CKD stage 3 is moderate, managing the condition involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medical interventions. Typical strategies include: - Controlling blood pressure through medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs - Managing blood sugar levels if diabetes is present - Adjusting diet to limit salt, protein, and phosphorus intake - Avoiding medications that can harm the kidneys - Monitoring kidney function regularly through laboratory tests - Addressing any underlying conditions contributing to kidney damage In some cases, additional treatments or referrals to specialists may be necessary. Early management can slow the progression of CKD and reduce the risk of complications such as kidney failure.