Kidney Disease, also known as Renal Disease, is a condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to function properly. If left untreated, kidney disease can progress to kidney failure, which can be life-threatening. The eGFR test assesses kidney function by measuring the rate at which the kidneys filter waste from the blood.

Kidney Disease progresses in 5 general stages. Knowing the progression for each stage can help patients and their families manage their condition and understand when Home Health, Hospice Care, and Caregiver Services can help.

Stages of Kidney Disease

Stage 1 – Normal or increased eGFR (90+) with mild damage to the kidneys. Usually no symptoms.

Stage 2 – Mild decrease in eGFR (60-89) with mild damage to the kidneys. No symptoms or mild symptoms, such as increased protein in urine and high blood pressure.

Stage 3 – Moderate decrease in eGFR (30-59) with moderate damage to the kidneys. Symptoms can include increased protein in the urine, high blood pressure, fatigue, changes in urination, and swelling in hands, legs, or feet.

Stage 4 – Severe decrease in eGFR (15-29) with severe damage to the kidneys. Symptoms can include high levels of waste and fluid buildup in the body, nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, and pain in the lower back.

Stage 5 – End-stage kidney disease with a complete or near-complete loss of kidney function. Symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, trouble breathing, loss of appetite, weakness & fatigue, headaches, difficulty sleeping, muscle cramps, and persistent itching.

How Assisted Supports Patients with Kidney Disease

Assisted Home Health and Hospice is dedicated to supporting patients with kidney disease and their families. Our experienced team of professionals will provide healthcare services, symptom management, and emotional support to help our patients navigate their journey with confidence and comfort.

Kidney disease symptoms like dizziness, headache, and fatigue can make it difficult to manage everyday tasks like showering, dressing, and preparing meals.Home Care Aides from Assisted Caregiver Services can assist with personal care activities to allow your loved ones to focus on their health without feeling burdened by everyday tasks.

Assisted Home Health offers personalized care for kidney disease patients in collaboration with the patient’s physician. Our trained nursing staff provides comprehensive in-home support to enhance quality of life and independence, including vital sign monitoring, medication administration, and education on the disease and its management. Our goal is to provide high-quality care while improving patients’ quality of life.

As kidney disease progresses into its late stages, the focus of treatment will shift from curative measures to comfort care. Fortunately, stopping dialysis is not always required. If the patient’s kidney disease is unrelated to the hospice diagnosis, it may be an option for patients to continue receiving dialysis in conjunction with hospice care. Contact Assisted Hospice Care to learn more.