Posted , 2 users are following.
I guess this depends on the individual, but at the same time, I am a little concerned. Does the amount of protein in the urine affect prognosis? Mine is in the nephrotic range right now, so hopefully that will reduce with medication.
Thanks
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mikewordman jellybeans20
Posted
Hi Jellybeans,
I also have IGA nephropathy, so I can speak to this. You're right, it depends on the individual; factors include patient age, diet, medication control, and overall health. If other medical conditions are present, they may influence / hasten the decline in kidney function - but as always, the answer is "it depends". In terms of myself: it took 17 years from the time I was diagnosed for my kidneys to reach a level where I finally required dialysis. When I was first diagnosed I was probably at around 70% kidney function, and when I started on dialysis I was down to 7%. I met on a regular basis (typically once every 6 months or so) with my nephrologist during that time and I got the sense that they were expecting me to go from diagnosis to dialysis in something like 7 to 9 years, give or take. So take from that what you will.
Yes, as far as I know there is a correlation between the amount of protein you excrete in urine vs. how fast your kidneys decline. Simple way to understand it: reducing protein leakage can increase the longevity of your kidneys. In my case, I took candesartan which is a blood pressure medication which (apparently) may help reduce protein leakage - at least, that's what it did for me. Perhaps there are other medications as well that will be of help to you. Ask your nephrologist about it.
I hope that helps. Best wishes,
jellybeans20 mikewordman
Posted
Thank you very much for your response, and for sharing your own experiences with me.
Currently I am unsure how long my kidneys will last. I am controlling my BP with medication, and the proteinuria and haemturia with prednisolone. According to my results I have very active IgA, but I am not too sure what this means. Perhaps something to do with crescents?
Do you think it would be appropriate to ask my nephrologist about the prognosis? I do not want to seem dramatic by asking such questions, but I think I would like to know so I can feel like I have some sort of control over this.
Many thanks again for your reply, it is greatly appreciated.
Best wishes
mikewordman jellybeans20
Posted
Hi Jellybeans,
Yes, you should absolutely ask your nephrologist about your prognosis. Of course, it will merely be an estimate but that's par for the course. What will happen is that they will track your kidney function over time - say, testing every 6 months (estimate). Over time, as your kidney function drops (if it does drop), you will be able to plot a line through a scattershot of data points and if you extend that line into the future, that will be your best estimate. In the meantime, it's all about preserving function and your nephrologist will give you information on that. With proper diet and lifestyle (and medication) you can delay the loss in kidney function, or perhaps even stabilize it entirely.
Best wishes,