What is stage four kidney failure?

Stage four kidney failure is an advanced stage of kidney disease where a person has advanced kidney damage and a decreased glomerular filtration rate, states DaVita Kidney Care. A person at this stage of advanced kidney disease likely needs dialysis or a kidney transplant in the near future.

A person in stage four kidney failure experiences complications such as high blood pressure, bone disease or heart disease. Symptoms of stage four failure range from fluid retention and swelling to nerve problems, according to DaVita Kidney Care. A nephrologist treats a patient in this stage of kidney failure by ordering tests and arranging treatment or a transplant, if necessary.