I have late stage 4 kidney failure 20%, will I hurt once kidneys fail or need dialysis ?

Hi, I have asked this question, my name is Catherine I am new to empower, I am also new to finding out about my kindest function of 20%. I don't know if my Dr is the right one for me. He mentioned dialysis in Feb. but said then that we were not there yet. Then function was 26%, now in Aug function at 20%, other than prescribing mor b/p meds nothing else said or done. Next appt. is Dec. 10th. No mention of any lists or anything else.

Hello Anon

Thank you for writing.

There are many things to expect with kidney failure. Some people experience a few, many or all.

Things to look out for are blood pressure that elevates. Red blood cells decrease. Appetite decreases, accompanied by nausea and vomiting, and debilitating fatigue sets in.

These can be signs of kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), renal insufficiency, or renal failure.

Chronic kidney failure develops gradually over a long period of time. Hands and feet may become numb, and may swell from fluid retention.

The skin may itch. The need to urinate may be frequent, but producing little output. Muscles may cramp and twitch. Sores may appear in the mouth. Body temperature may be low.

The skin tone may be a yellow-brown. The patient may suffer from shortness of breath. As symptoms worsen, they may experience seizures and ultimately coma.

Other health problems can emerge long before kidney failure occurs.

For example, if the kidneys stop producing enough erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that tells the bones to make red blood cells, anemia can develop.

If the kidneys don't keep calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood in balance, bones are weakened.

You should talk to an expert in this area about what to expect. Prepare for dialysis which isn't easy but is literally life-saving and will make you feel a lot better. I hope you (high) are on a donation list.
Best,
Susan