Symptoms of stage 3 kidney disease
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Symptoms of Stage 3 Kidney Disease
Common Symptoms and Complications
Fatigue and Anemia
Fatigue is a prevalent symptom in stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD), often linked to anemia, which is common due to the kidneys' reduced ability to produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production . This can lead to persistent tiredness and a general feeling of weakness .
Hypertension and Cardiovascular Issues
Patients with stage 3 CKD frequently experience hypertension, which can exacerbate kidney damage and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure and myocardial infarction 23. Subclinical cardiopulmonary dysfunction, including reduced exercise capacity and changes in cardiac morphology, is also common in this stage, indicating early cardiovascular issues even before heart failure becomes apparent .
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as anorexia, nausea, and halitosis (bad breath) are also reported in stage 3 CKD. These symptoms can significantly affect the quality of life and nutritional status of patients .
Bone Disease and Mineral Imbalance
Bone disease is another complication, often due to imbalances in calcium and phosphate metabolism. This can lead to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures .
Edema and Fluid Retention
Edema, or swelling, particularly in the lower extremities, is a common symptom due to the kidneys' reduced ability to remove excess fluid from the body .
Pruritus and Skin Issues
Pruritus, or severe itching, is frequently reported and can be quite distressing for patients. This symptom is often related to the accumulation of waste products in the blood that the kidneys can no longer filter effectively .
Subclinical Symptoms
Cardiopulmonary Dysfunction
Even in the absence of overt heart failure, patients with stage 3 CKD may exhibit subclinical cardiopulmonary dysfunction. This includes lower peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), reduced peak heart rate, and impaired heart rate recovery, indicating early autonomic and cardiovascular maladaptation .
Autonomic Dysfunction
Autonomic dysfunction, which affects the involuntary nervous system, is also noted. This can manifest as impaired heart rate recovery after exercise, further contributing to reduced exercise capacity and overall physical function .
Conclusion
Stage 3 CKD is marked by a variety of symptoms and complications that affect multiple body systems. Common symptoms include fatigue, hypertension, gastrointestinal issues, bone disease, edema, and pruritus. Additionally, subclinical cardiopulmonary and autonomic dysfunctions are prevalent, indicating early cardiovascular issues. Recognizing and managing these symptoms is crucial to improving the quality of life and slowing the progression of CKD.
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