RN to RN, asking for your expertise!

[Hannahrn]

Hi! I'm an RN but work in NICU, a far cry from Nephrology! Wondering if anyone can offer some advice/resources for me. I was just diagnosed with IgA nephropathy. My nephrologist acted like it wasn't a big deal, just prescribed fish oil and informed me that I will need to be followed for the rest of my life. And, that since it was caught early, I will likely be ok. However, I am reading up on the internet, seems like this progresses to ESRD quite frequently. What is your experience with this and what resources do you reccomend for me? Any info is greatly appreciated...

[workingmomRN]

IgA nephropathy does sometimes progress to ESRD, but many times there are other factors as well. The fact that it was caught early is in your favor. Dialysis has a lot of noncompliant patients that did not take measures to control their bp, diabetes, etc. Be sure to keep up with your BUN and creatinine levels and stay away from dark-colored sodas, high-protein diets, and stay well-hydrated so your kidneys will stay flushed out. Try to prevent UTI's as well. Make sure your nephrologist is straight-forward with you and be sure you feel confident that you know how your state of well-being really is before you leave his office!