Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3: What You Need to Know

Living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3 can feel overwhelming. As kidney function begins to decline, many patients have questions about symptoms, treatment options, and what comes next. This guide breaks down the need-to-know basics of CKD stage 3, from key symptoms to management strategies.

What Is Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3?

Chronic kidney disease stage 3 means your kidneys are moderately damaged and not working as well as they should. During this stage, your kidneys filter blood less effectively, causing waste products to build up in your body.

CKD stage 3 is divided into two sub-stages:

• Stage 3A: Kidney function is between 45-59%
• Stage 3B: Kidney function is between 30-44%

Doctors measure kidney function using a blood test called eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate). A normal eGFR is 90 or higher. In stage 3 CKD, your eGFR falls between 30-59.

Common Symptoms of CKD Stage 3

Many people with stage 3 kidney disease start noticing symptoms as waste products accumulate in their blood. Common signs include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Swelling in hands, feet, or ankles
• Back pain near the kidneys
• More frequent urination, especially at night
• High blood pressure
• Sleep problems
• Changes in urine color or foamy urine

Not everyone experiences all these symptoms. Some people with CKD stage 3 may have few or no obvious signs.

What Causes Kidney Disease to Reach Stage 3?

Several conditions can damage kidneys and lead to stage 3 CKD:

• Diabetes (both type 1 and type 2)
• High blood pressure
• Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters)
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Repeated kidney infections
• Long-term use of certain medications
• Autoimmune diseases like lupus
• Family History
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Urinary Tract blockages like kidney stones

Diagnosing CKD Stage 3

If your doctor suspects kidney problems, they'll likely order these tests:

• Blood tests (eGFR, creatinine, BUN)
• Urine tests to check for protein (albumin)
• Blood pressure measurement
• Imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan
• Sometimes, a kidney biopsy

Treatment Options for Stage 3 CKD

The good news is that stage 3 CKD can often be managed effectively. While CKD is generally not considered reversible, treatment focuses on slowing its progression and addressing underlying conditions.

Managing Underlying Conditions

• Controlling blood sugar if you have diabetes
• Taking blood pressure medications as prescribed
• Treating other health issues affecting your kidneys

Medication Management

• Blood pressure medications – especially ACE inhibitors or ARBs – to help protect kidney function
• Cholesterol-lowering medications to reduce the risk of heart disease
• Diabetes medications to help control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes
• Medications to treat anemia, such as iron supplements, if needed
• Calcium and Vitamin D supplements to support bone health

You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as pain relievers called NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) and some arthritis treatments, as they can worsen kidney damage. Be sure to tell your doctor about every medication you take — even over-the-counter drugs and vitamins — so they can make any necessary changes to help protect your kidneys. Your renal dietitian can also assist you with this task.

Remember: don’t make changes to your medications without talking to your doctor first.

Lifestyle Changes

Diet Modifications

Dietary needs change as kidney disease progresses. Some of the changes needed may include:

• Reducing sodium (salt) intake
• Controlling protein consumption if low protein diet is recommended
• Asking your provider if you should limit phosphorus and potassium
• Staying hydrated appropriately

Other Important Changes

• Regular physical activity (with doctor approval)
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Maintaining healthy weight
• Avoiding NSAIDs like ibuprofen when possible

Remember: talk to your renal dietitian before making any dietary changes.

Can CKD Stage 3 Be Reversed?

While complete reversal is rare, you can often slow progression and even improve kidney function with proper care. The key is catching and treating CKD stage 3 early.

Many patients remain at stage 3 for years with good management. Without treatment, CKD can progress to stages 4 and 5, when dialysis or transplant may become necessary.

When to See a Kidney Specialist

Your primary doctor will likely refer you to a nephrologist (kidney specialist) during stage 3 CKD, if they have not already. This typically happens:

• When eGFR drops below 45
• If kidney function declines rapidly
• When complications develop

Living Well with CKD Stage 3

Having stage 3 kidney disease doesn't mean you can't live a full life. Many people successfully manage their condition by:

• Taking medications as prescribed
• Keeping all doctor appointments
• Following dietary guidelines
• Staying physically active
• Monitoring blood pressure at home
• Getting regular lab tests
• Joining a support group
• Learning all you can about kidney health
  

Visit our Kidney Health Resource Library

Our resource library provides expert guidance on maintaining healthy kidneys through nutrition, lifestyle changes, and medical insights. Discover the best foods for kidney health, strategies for managing pre-diabetes, and resources to support your wellness journey. Browse our collection of kidney-friendly recipes, research-backed recommendations, and educational materials—all designed to empower you to make informed decisions about your kidney health.

The Bottom Line on CKD Stage 3

Stage 3 chronic kidney disease represents a critical point in kidney health. While it means moderate kidney damage has occurred, it's not too late to take action.

With proper medical care, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring, many people successfully manage stage 3 CKD for years while maintaining a good quality of life.

If you've been diagnosed with stage 3 kidney disease, work closely with your healthcare team to create a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. By taking an active role in your kidney health now, you can help preserve kidney function and prevent or delay further progression.

Remember: Early intervention and consistent management are your best tools for living well with chronic kidney disease stage 3.

Medical content on this blog has been written and/or reviewed by healthcare professionals but should not replace personalized medical advice from your doctor.