Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3 ICD-10 is a commonly searched medical term that combines a clinical diagnosis with its official coding classification. It refers to Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and the corresponding ICD-10 code used by healthcare providers for documentation, insurance billing, and medical records.

CKD Stage 3 is considered a moderate reduction in kidney function and requires proper monitoring, lifestyle management, and sometimes medication to prevent progression to advanced stages.

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. Healthy kidneys remove toxins, balance electrolytes, regulate blood pressure, and help produce red blood cells.

CKD is divided into five stages based on glomerular filtration rate (GFR):

• Stage 1: Normal kidney function with kidney damage

• Stage 2: Mild decrease in GFR

• Stage 3: Moderate decrease in kidney function

• Stage 4: Severe decrease

• Stage 5: Kidney failure (End-stage renal disease)

Stage 3 is often where many patients first receive a formal diagnosis because symptoms may begin to appear.

What Is CKD Stage 3?

Stage 3 CKD is diagnosed when the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) falls between:

• 30–59 mL/min/1.73 m²

It is further divided into:

• Stage 3A: eGFR 45–59

• Stage 3B: eGFR 30–44

At this stage, kidneys are not working at full capacity, but dialysis is not required. However, without proper care, the condition can worsen.

ICD-10 Code for Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3

The ICD-10 coding system is officially known as:

ICD-10

ICD-10 stands for International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, developed by the World Health Organization. It is used worldwide to classify diseases and health conditions.

For CKD Stage 3, the ICD-10 codes are:

• N18.30 – Chronic kidney disease, stage 3 unspecified

• N18.31 – Chronic kidney disease, stage 3A

• N18.32 – Chronic kidney disease, stage 3B

These codes are used by hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies for:

• Medical documentation

• Treatment planning

• Insurance reimbursement

• Health statistics and research

Correct ICD-10 coding ensures accurate patient records and proper healthcare management.

Causes of CKD Stage 3

The most common causes include:

1. Diabetes – High blood sugar damages kidney blood vessels.

2. High blood pressure (Hypertension) – Increases pressure inside kidney filtering units.

3. Family history of kidney disease

4. Recurrent kidney infections

5. Autoimmune disorders

6. Long-term use of certain pain medications

Diabetes and hypertension are responsible for most CKD cases worldwide.

Symptoms of CKD Stage 3

Many patients may not notice symptoms in early Stage 3. However, as kidney function declines, symptoms may include:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Swelling in feet and ankles

• Frequent urination (especially at night)

• Dry and itchy skin

• Muscle cramps

• Mild anemia

• Elevated creatinine levels

Because symptoms are often mild, regular blood and urine tests are essential for early detection.

Diagnosis of CKD Stage 3

Doctors diagnose Stage 3 CKD through:

• Serum creatinine test

• Estimated GFR calculation

• Urine albumin test

• Blood pressure monitoring

• Kidney ultrasound (if required)

Early diagnosis helps slow the progression of kidney damage.

Treatment Options for CKD Stage 3

Although CKD Stage 3 cannot usually be reversed, it can be managed effectively.

1. Blood Pressure Control

Maintaining blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg helps protect kidney function.

2. Blood Sugar Management

For diabetic patients, strict glucose control is critical.

3. Medications

Doctors may prescribe:

• ACE inhibitors

• ARBs

• Diuretics

• Cholesterol-lowering medicines

4. Dietary Modifications

• Reduce salt intake

• Moderate protein consumption

• Limit potassium and phosphorus (if levels are high)

• Stay hydrated but avoid excessive fluid

5. Lifestyle Changes

• Quit smoking

• Maintain healthy weight

• Regular exercise

• Avoid unnecessary NSAIDs

Complications of Stage 3 CKD

If not managed properly, CKD Stage 3 can lead to:

• Anemia

• Bone disease

• Heart disease

• Electrolyte imbalance

• Progression to Stage 4 or 5

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading risks in CKD patients.

Importance of ICD-10 Coding in CKD Stage 3

Accurate ICD-10 coding plays a major role in:

• Identifying disease severity

• Tracking disease progression

• Healthcare quality reporting

• Insurance approvals

• Medical audits

Using specific codes like N18.31 (Stage 3A) or N18.32 (Stage 3B) provides better clarity than general coding.

Can CKD Stage 3 Be Reversed?

CKD Stage 3 is generally considered chronic and progressive, meaning full reversal is rare. However, with early intervention and proper management:

• Kidney function decline can be slowed

• Complications can be prevented

• Quality of life can remain stable for many years

Some patients remain in Stage 3 for decades without progressing further.

Prevention Tips

To prevent worsening of CKD Stage 3:

• Monitor kidney function regularly

• Follow a kidney-friendly diet

• Keep blood pressure and diabetes under control

• Avoid self-medication

• Maintain active lifestyle

Early action is the key to preventing kidney failure.

Conclusion

Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3 ICD-10 refers to the moderate stage of kidney function decline classified under codes N18.30, N18.31, and N18.32 in the ICD-10 system developed by the World Health Organization. Stage 3 CKD indicates an eGFR between 30–59 mL/min/1.73 m² and requires careful monitoring and management.

Although it is not usually reversible, timely treatment, proper lifestyle changes, and accurate ICD-10 documentation can significantly slow disease progression and improve patient outcomes. Regular testing, medical supervision, and preventive care are essential to maintaining kidney health at this stage.