Nephrologist (Kidney Specialist) Questions

“Kidney failure ”

I’m in stage 4 kidney failure which happened suddenly 8 months ago. I have a multitude of health conditions (27 diagnosed thus far). I have zero quality of life. I am not following a kidney diet and when/if I hit stage 5 renal failure I have already rejected dialysis. I’ve been chronically ill and in major pain pain most my life. If I refuse to follow kidney diet & dialysis (I’m 67) how much longer will I live?

Female | 67 years old
Complaint duration: 8 months
Medications: Carvedilol, nifedipine, benzodiazepines, ambien, CPAP, narcotic painkiller, Xanax, levothyroxine, metformin,
Conditions: Ehlers Danlos hypermobile severe, insomnia, sleep apnea, sjogrens, fibromyalgia, Pots, metabolic syndrome, lichen planus, osteoarthritis in spine & joints (degenerative joints) have had two TIAs, high BP, anemic, migraines, diverticulitis, hypothyroidism, and more

1 Answer

Hi Every person is different. It depends what residual function you have. I have stage 5 pts be able to hold off from dialysis for 2 years and be ok then I have patients that decline very quickly and unexpectedly. It all depends on your body. I would suggest you speak with a palliative care provider prior to hitting stage 5 and assure you have a POLST stating no Diyalsis if unable to make your own decisions. I how this helps Thank you Amanda