A diagnosis of chronic renal disease stage 3 means that kidney function has decreased to a moderate level. This stage is important because appropriate treatment and regular monitoring can help slow further kidney damage and reduce the risk of complications.
Stage 3 chronic kidney disease is commonly divided into Stage 3a and Stage 3b, based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Some patients may have few or no symptoms, while others may develop fatigue, swelling, urinary changes, high blood pressure, anemia, or other complications.
A Stage 3 diagnosis does not automatically mean that dialysis or kidney transplantation is required. Treatment focuses on identifying the underlying cause, protecting remaining kidney function, controlling associated conditions, and monitoring for complications.
At Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic, Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, a super specialist nephrologist, provides comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment for chronic kidney disease.
What Is Chronic Renal Disease Stage 3?
Chronic renal disease stage 3 generally corresponds to Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
It indicates a sustained reduction in kidney filtration.
Stage 3 is divided into:
Stage 3a
eGFR is generally 45 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m².
Stage 3b
eGFR is generally 30 to 44 mL/min/1.73 m².
A diagnosis of CKD requires abnormalities of kidney structure or function that are present for at least three months. eGFR should therefore be interpreted together with the duration of the abnormality and other findings, particularly urine albumin levels.
Does Stage 3 CKD Mean the Kidneys Are Failing?
Not necessarily.
Stage 3 represents a moderate reduction in kidney function, but the kidneys continue to perform many important functions.
Patients with Stage 3 CKD may be able to maintain stable kidney function for many years, particularly when the underlying causes and risk factors are appropriately managed.
The rate of progression varies significantly between individuals.
Factors such as:
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Diabetes
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High blood pressure
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Proteinuria or albuminuria
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Cardiovascular disease
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Smoking
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Recurrent kidney injury
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Underlying kidney disease
can influence the risk of progression.
Causes of Chronic Renal Disease Stage 3
Stage 3 CKD can develop from many different kidney conditions.
Diabetes
Long-standing or poorly controlled diabetes can damage the kidney's filtering units and cause albumin to leak into the urine.
Diabetic kidney disease is a common cause of CKD.
High Blood Pressure
Persistent hypertension can damage the blood vessels within the kidneys.
At the same time, CKD itself can contribute to high blood pressure, creating a cycle that may accelerate kidney damage.
Glomerulonephritis
Inflammation affecting the kidney's filtering units can cause:
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Protein in the urine
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Blood in the urine
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Reduced kidney function
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High blood pressure
Polycystic Kidney Disease
Inherited conditions such as polycystic kidney disease can progressively affect kidney function.
Recurrent Kidney Infections
Repeated or severe kidney infections may cause permanent structural damage in some patients.
Urinary Obstruction
Conditions that interfere with urine drainage, including certain stones or urinary tract abnormalities, can contribute to kidney damage.
Autoimmune Kidney Diseases
Conditions such as lupus and other autoimmune disorders can affect the kidneys and lead to CKD.
Symptoms of Stage 3 Chronic Renal Disease
Some people with Stage 3 CKD have no noticeable symptoms.
When symptoms occur, they may include:
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Fatigue
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Weakness
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Swelling of the feet or ankles
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Puffy areas around the eyes
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Changes in urination
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Foamy urine
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Blood in the urine
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Frequent urination, particularly at night
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Muscle cramps
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Dry or itchy skin
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Reduced appetite
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Nausea
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Difficulty concentrating
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High blood pressure
Symptoms vary according to the cause of CKD and the presence of complications.
Why Can Stage 3 CKD Cause Fatigue?
Fatigue may have several causes in people with CKD.
Reduced kidney function can contribute to anemia, in which the blood has a reduced ability to carry oxygen.
Other possible contributors include:
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Poor sleep
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Nutritional problems
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Chronic inflammation
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Other medical conditions
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Medication effects
If fatigue is persistent, blood tests can help determine whether anemia or another complication is present.
How Is Stage 3 Chronic Renal Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves more than checking creatinine once.
At Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic, a super specialist nephrologist may evaluate:
Serum Creatinine
Creatinine is a waste product used as part of kidney-function assessment.
eGFR
eGFR estimates how effectively the kidneys filter blood.
An eGFR between 30 and 59 may fall within Stage 3 when the abnormality is persistent.
Urine Albumin Testing
A urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) can identify albumin leakage.
Albuminuria is an important marker of kidney damage and can help determine the risk of CKD progression.
Urinalysis
Urine testing may detect:
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Blood
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Protein
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Infection
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Other abnormalities
Blood Tests
Additional tests may include:
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Electrolytes
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Hemoglobin
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Blood glucose
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Calcium
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Phosphorus
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Other tests based on the patient's condition
Blood Pressure Measurement
Regular blood pressure monitoring is an important part of CKD management.
Imaging
A kidney ultrasound may be recommended when appropriate to assess:
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Kidney size
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Structural abnormalities
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Cysts
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Stones
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Urinary obstruction
Additional imaging is selected according to the clinical situation.
What Is the Difference Between Stage 3a and Stage 3b?
Both are Stage 3 CKD, but Stage 3b represents a greater reduction in kidney filtration.
| CKD Stage | eGFR |
|---|---|
| Stage 3a | 45–59 |
| Stage 3b | 30–44 |
Stage 3b generally requires particularly careful monitoring for complications and progression.
However, eGFR alone does not tell the entire story. Urine albumin levels, the underlying kidney disease, age, blood pressure, diabetes, and other health factors are also important.
Treatment for Chronic Renal Disease Stage 3
There is no single treatment that works for every patient.
Treatment is directed toward preserving kidney function and managing the underlying cause.
Control Blood Pressure
Maintaining appropriate blood pressure is one of the most important aspects of CKD management.
Depending on the patient's condition, medications that protect kidney function may be prescribed.
Manage Diabetes
Good blood glucose management can help reduce further kidney damage in people with diabetes.
Some patients may benefit from kidney-protective diabetes medications, depending on their medical history and kidney function.
Reduce Excess Protein Loss
Patients with significant albuminuria may be prescribed medications that reduce protein leakage and protect kidney function when appropriate.
Treat Anemia
If Stage 3 CKD is associated with anemia, the doctor may investigate causes such as iron deficiency and determine whether treatment is necessary.
Manage Electrolytes and Mineral Problems
CKD can affect mineral metabolism.
Depending on laboratory results, doctors may monitor:
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Potassium
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Calcium
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Phosphorus
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Bicarbonate
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Vitamin D-related parameters
Treatment should be based on individual laboratory findings rather than routine supplementation.
Stage 3 CKD Diet
There is no single universal diet for everyone with Stage 3 CKD.
Dietary recommendations should be personalized according to:
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Kidney function
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Urine protein or albumin
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Potassium levels
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Phosphorus levels
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Diabetes
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Blood pressure
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Nutritional status
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Other medical conditions
General principles may include:
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Limiting excessive salt intake
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Reducing highly processed foods
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Maintaining appropriate protein intake
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Eating a balanced diet
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Managing blood sugar
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Following individualized potassium or phosphorus recommendations when necessary
A kidney dietitian may be helpful for patients who require detailed dietary planning.
How Much Water Should a Stage 3 CKD Patient Drink?
There is no fixed amount of water that is suitable for every Stage 3 CKD patient.
Fluid requirements depend on:
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Kidney function
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Urine output
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Swelling
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Heart health
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Medications
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Other medical conditions
Some patients can drink normally, while others may need fluid adjustments.
Do not force excessive water intake unless specifically recommended by your healthcare professional.
Lifestyle Changes for Stage 3 CKD
Patients can support kidney health by:
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Maintaining a healthy weight
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Staying physically active as advised
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Avoiding smoking
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Limiting excessive salt intake
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Controlling blood pressure
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Managing diabetes
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Taking prescribed medications correctly
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Avoiding unnecessary painkillers, particularly NSAIDs
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Attending regular nephrology appointments
Healthy lifestyle measures work alongside medical treatment.
Can Stage 3 Chronic Renal Disease Be Reversed?
Established chronic kidney disease is generally not considered reversible.
However, kidney function may remain stable for a long period, and progression can often be slowed.
In some situations, a temporary worsening of kidney function caused by dehydration, infection, medication effects, or obstruction may improve when the underlying problem is treated.
This is why identifying the cause of declining kidney function is important.
Can Stage 3 CKD Progress to Kidney Failure?
It can, but progression is not inevitable.
The risk depends on several factors, including:
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Rate of eGFR decline
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Albuminuria
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Diabetes
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Blood pressure control
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Underlying kidney disease
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Cardiovascular health
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Repeated episodes of acute kidney injury
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Medication adherence
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Lifestyle factors
Regular monitoring allows the nephrologist to identify changes early.
Possible Complications of Stage 3 CKD
Stage 3 CKD can be associated with:
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Anemia
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High blood pressure
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Electrolyte abnormalities
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Mineral and bone disorders
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Cardiovascular disease
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Fluid retention
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Metabolic acidosis in some patients
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Increased risk of acute kidney injury
Regular testing helps identify complications before they become severe.
Does Stage 3 CKD Require Dialysis?
Usually, no.
Dialysis is generally associated with kidney failure and is not started simply because a patient has Stage 3 CKD.
Dialysis decisions are based on the patient's overall clinical condition and complications, rather than an eGFR number alone.
Patients with Stage 3 CKD typically focus on slowing progression, managing complications, and preserving kidney function.
How Often Should Stage 3 CKD Be Monitored?
Monitoring frequency varies according to:
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Stage 3a versus 3b
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Rate of kidney-function decline
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Albuminuria
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Blood pressure
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Diabetes
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Medication changes
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Complications
Your nephrologist can determine an appropriate follow-up schedule and repeat kidney-function and urine tests as needed.
When Should You See a Nephrologist?
A nephrology consultation is particularly important if you have:
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Persistent eGFR below 60
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Increasing creatinine
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Protein or albumin in the urine
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Blood in the urine
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Difficult-to-control hypertension
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Diabetes with kidney abnormalities
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Recurrent kidney stones
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Repeated acute kidney injuries
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Swelling
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Rapidly changing kidney function
Early specialist care can help identify the cause and reduce the risk of progression.
Why Choose Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic?
At Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic, patients with chronic renal disease receive individualized evaluation and long-term kidney care.
Patients benefit from:
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Consultation with Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, super specialist nephrologist
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Detailed kidney-function assessment
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eGFR and urine albumin evaluation
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Management of diabetes and hypertension-related kidney disease
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Evaluation of CKD complications
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Personalized treatment plans
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Kidney-friendly dietary guidance
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Dialysis planning when medically required
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Kidney transplant evaluation and guidance for advanced disease
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Long-term nephrology monitoring
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Evidence-based, patient-centered care
The goal is to preserve kidney function, identify complications early, and support better long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does chronic renal disease stage 3 mean?
It generally means persistent moderate reduction in kidney function, corresponding to an eGFR of 30 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m². Stage 3 is divided into Stage 3a and Stage 3b.
Is Stage 3 kidney disease serious?
Stage 3 CKD is a significant medical condition, but it does not automatically mean kidney failure. Appropriate treatment and monitoring can help slow progression and manage complications.
Can Stage 3 CKD patients live for many years?
Yes. Prognosis varies considerably between individuals. The underlying cause, albuminuria, age, cardiovascular health, diabetes, blood pressure, and rate of kidney-function decline all influence long-term outcomes.
Does Stage 3 CKD mean I need dialysis?
No. Stage 3 CKD generally does not require dialysis. Dialysis is considered when kidney failure causes significant symptoms or complications that cannot be adequately managed otherwise.
What foods should be avoided in Stage 3 CKD?
There is no universal list of foods that every Stage 3 CKD patient must avoid. Salt, protein, potassium, phosphorus, and fluid recommendations should be individualized according to laboratory results and overall health.
Can Stage 3 CKD improve?
Chronic kidney disease itself is generally not reversible, but kidney function can sometimes stabilize. If an acute problem has caused a temporary decline, kidney function may improve after the underlying problem is treated.
Is high creatinine always Stage 3 CKD?
No. Creatinine levels vary with age, sex, muscle mass, medications, hydration, and other factors. eGFR and evidence of kidney damage are used to assess CKD stage.
Can Stage 3 CKD cause swelling?
Yes. Some patients develop swelling because of fluid retention or significant protein loss, although swelling can also have heart, liver, venous, medication-related, or other causes.
Should I drink more water if I have Stage 3 CKD?
Not automatically. Fluid requirements should be individualized. Excessive fluid intake can be harmful in some patients.
Conclusion
Chronic renal disease stage 3 represents a moderate reduction in kidney function and is commonly divided into Stage 3a and Stage 3b. Although kidney function is reduced, Stage 3 CKD does not automatically mean kidney failure or the need for dialysis.
Early identification of the underlying cause, appropriate blood pressure and diabetes management, monitoring of urine albumin and kidney function, individualized dietary care, and regular nephrology follow-up can help protect remaining kidney function and reduce complications.
At Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic, Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, a super specialist nephrologist, provides comprehensive evaluation and personalized care for patients with chronic kidney disease. The focus is on identifying the cause, managing complications, slowing progression, and supporting long-term kidney health.
Book an Appointment Today
If you have been diagnosed with chronic renal disease stage 3, elevated creatinine, reduced eGFR, protein in the urine, diabetes, high blood pressure, swelling, or other signs of kidney dysfunction, schedule a consultation at Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic. Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, super specialist nephrologist, can assess your kidney function, identify potential causes, and develop an individualized treatment and monitoring plan.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. CKD stage and treatment decisions should be based on appropriate laboratory testing, clinical evaluation, persistence of abnormalities, and the patient's overall health. Do not change medications, diet, fluid intake, or treatment without consulting your healthcare professional.
