Deep Dive: Managing Stage 3 CKD (3A vs 3B)

3A vs 3B

Key Points

When you’re told you’re in stage 3 chronic kidney disease, it doesn’t always come with symptoms, but it’s still serious. At this point, your kidneys are not doing as much as they should. The numbers—like GFR levels—help doctors split stage 3 CKD treatment into 3A and 3B. Each needs a different level of attention. Some people feel fine. Others start noticing changes. That’s where we come in. At SouthernOKC, we don’t just treat numbers. We help people understand what’s going on inside their bodies and how to take charge of it, step by step. Because when you understand your kidneys, you protect them better.

Why Early Action in Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease Matters

You wouldn’t always know it, but being in stage 3 chronic kidney disease means your kidneys are under stress. They’re working harder than they should be. And the thing is, most people still feel fine at this point. That’s why it gets missed. But if your eGFR stage 3 recommendations are dropping, ignoring it isn’t smart. Doesn’t mean you need to panic. Just… pay attention. Catching it now gives you time to adjust things—diet, meds, whatever your doctor suggests. It’s easier to slow it now than later. Not perfect, not easy. But it is still possible. That’s the window early care gives you.

Understanding the Difference: 3A vs 3B

Stage 3 chronic kidney disease. Sounds clinical, but here’s the thing: it breaks into two parts—3A and 3B. And no, it’s not just a label. It’s based on your GFR levels (that’s how doctors measure kidney filtering). If you’re in eGFR stage 3 recommendations, your kidneys are slowing down, but they’re still holding it together. 3B means they’ve lost more ground. You might feel a little more tired, or your blood pressure might climb. That’s when people usually start noticing things. The stage you’re in helps your doctor decide what to do next—and how to slow it all down.

Why Early Action in Stage 3 CKD Matters

When you’re in stage 3 chronic kidney disease, you might still feel okay. That’s why people ignore it. But that’s also when action matters most. Whether it’s eGFR stage 3 recommendations, both show that your kidneys are under pressure. Your doctor may talk about eGFR stage 3 recommendations —don’t brush it off. This is the window. Slow things down now so you don’t face tougher choices later. It’s not a drawback; it’s just smart timing.

Working With a Trusted Healthcare Provider

Our care team must be aware of your goals, Stage 3 chronic kidney disease symptoms, and stage. At SouthernOKC, we provide support tailored to your current stage of kidney function. That includes monitoring, education, and lifestyle guidance. If you’re looking for resources and trusted care options, start with our Chronic Kidney Disease Management program.

Lifestyle Support: What You Can Control

If you’re in stage 3 chronic kidney disease, there’s still stuff you can do. Even between CKD stage 3A vs 3B, lifestyle matters. Cut back on salt. Move around a little more. Listen to your doctor’s tips. Stage 3 CKD treatment isn’t one big fix—it’s small things, done often, that help slow it all down.

Take the Next Step in CKD Care

Facing stage 3 chronic kidney disease doesn’t mean facing it alone. With early action and expert care, there’s a path forward. Contact SouthernOKC today to get started with supportive, personalized care that fits your stage and lifestyle.

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