DEAR DR. GOTT: I have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. I was shocked when the nephrologist told me this, as I have no symptoms. I decided I would get a second opinion. The second doctor said my first diagnosis was correct and put me on a strict low-sodium, low-phosphorus, low-protein diet with very few things I could eat. I went back to the first nephrologists, who said, with all the trials done on the kidneys, it was found that I wouldn’t live one day longer on the diet. She said instead to limit my protein somewhat and to watch my sodium. What is your feeling on this strict diet? I’m a 76-year-old woman. I am having surgery soon to provide an access, as it takes six months for it to heal so I can have dialysis.

DEAR READER: Chronic kidney disease is the gradual loss of kidney function. Conditions such as diabetes, kidney stones, enlarged prostate, vasculitis and hypertension are often associated with the disorder.
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