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What should you know about late-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD)?

Asking the right questions can help you start important conversations with your doctor or care team about your CKD care plan.

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October 28, 2024
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Julie Dominguez, MD
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3 minutes

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Kidney Basics
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Take an active role in your CKD treatment. Use these questions about late stage CKD (eGFR of 15-29) to help you start important conversations with your doctor or care team.

Questions to ask your doctor about CKD

  • What are the signs and symptoms of CKD and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD)?
  • What signs and symptoms should I contact you about?
  • Which CKD treatments may be right for me at the next stage?
  • What can I do to keep my kidneys working as long as possible?
  • What should I expect during stage 5 CKD (also known as ESKD)?
  • Is there anything I can do now to be ready for kidney failure treatment?
  • Is at-home dialysis an option for me?
    • If so and I choose at-home hemodialysis, can you explain why I need surgery for an access site and what I should expect?
    • If so and I choose at-home peritoneal dialysis, can you explain what a peritoneal dialysis catheter is?
  • Am I a candidate for a kidney transplant? If so, what do I need to do?
  • What health conditions besides CKD should I watch for?
  • I’m concerned about my future with CKD. Can you help me find a counselor or therapist?

Questions to ask your dietitian about CKD

  • Which food changes can make the biggest difference in my health?
  • Any tips for keeping my diet interesting, even with all the restrictions?
  • Is there a way for me to still eat my favorite foods?
  • Any advice for choosing kidney-friendly foods and drinks at restaurants?
  • What are the best on-the-go snacks for me?

Key takeaways

  • Use these questions to help you have important conversations with your doctor or care team about late stage CKD.
  • Ask your doctor about CKD treatment options, kidney failure treatment, dialysis, transplant, and managing your health.
  • Talk with your dietitian about food choices and ways to maintain a kidney-friendly diet while enjoying the foods you like.
  • Take an active role in your CKD treatment can help you prepare for the next stage of your care.

 

We are here to help

Reach out to your care team for support and to get your questions answered.

This serves only as a guide. Talk with your healthcare provider for more information based on your health needs.

Julie Dominguez

Julie Dominguez, MD

Vice President, Medical Office, Interwell Health

Julie Dominguez, MD, is a nephrologist with extensive experience in private practice nephrology and medical education. At Interwell Health, she helps advance high-quality kidney care programs that support patients and clinicians. Dr. Dominguez earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, completed her Internal Medicine residency at Duke University, and completed her Nephrology fellowship at the University of California San Diego.