The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, or eGFR, indicates kidney health by estimating how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood. A declining eGFR signals changes in kidney function, but various strategies can support and maintain kidney health. This article explores how eGFR is understood, what influences it, and practical steps you can take to support your kidney function.
Understanding Your eGFR
eGFR estimates the efficiency of your kidneys’ filtering units, glomeruli, which remove toxins and excess fluid from the blood. Healthcare providers determine your eGFR using a blood test that measures creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, along with your age, sex, and sometimes height and weight.
A higher eGFR typically indicates better kidney function. For adults, an eGFR of 90 milliliters per minute per 1.73 square meters (mL/min/1.73m²) or higher is generally considered within the normal range. eGFR naturally declines with age, so “normal” can vary even without kidney disease. For instance, the average eGFR for someone aged 20-29 might be around 116, while for those 70 and over, it could be around 75. An eGFR consistently below 60 mL/min/1.73m² for three months or more often indicates chronic kidney disease.
Factors That Affect eGFR
Several factors can influence eGFR readings and contribute to declining kidney function. Chronic health conditions are major contributors to kidney damage. For example, uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their filtering ability. Similarly, diabetes can lead to kidney damage by affecting the blood vessels and filtering units.
Certain medications can also impact kidney function. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, especially with long-term use. Some antibiotics, specific blood pressure medications, and even certain over-the-counter drugs can affect eGFR. Acute kidney injury (AKI), a sudden episode of kidney damage, can cause a temporary, sharp drop in eGFR. While eGFR often recovers after AKI treatment, repeated episodes or underlying issues can impact long-term kidney health.
Lifestyle Actions to Support Kidney Function
Adopting specific lifestyle changes can support kidney function and help maintain eGFR. Dietary adjustments are a key component of kidney health management. Reducing sodium intake is important because high sodium contributes to elevated blood pressure, which can strain the kidneys. Limiting processed foods, which often contain high levels of sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats, also benefits overall kidney well-being.
Maintaining appropriate protein intake is also a consideration; while essential, excessive amounts can increase the workload on the kidneys. For individuals with reduced kidney function, a healthcare provider might suggest a protein intake of around 0.6 to 0.8 grams per kilogram of ideal body weight per day. Focusing on whole, fresh, seasonal foods, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, provides essential nutrients and supports kidney health.
Staying adequately hydrated is fundamental for kidney function. Drinking enough fluids helps the kidneys clear waste products like sodium and urea, potentially lowering the risk of chronic kidney disease and kidney stone formation. Aiming for 6 to 8 glasses of fluid daily, with water as a primary choice, is generally recommended, though individual needs may vary based on activity level and climate. Regular physical activity also contributes to kidney health by improving circulation, managing blood pressure, and controlling blood sugar levels. Moderate-intensity activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming for at least 150 minutes per week can be beneficial.
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the burden on the kidneys and lowers the risk of conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which often affect kidney function. Quitting smoking is crucial, as smoking can damage blood vessels, including those in the kidneys, accelerating kidney function decline. Managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga can indirectly support kidney health by contributing to overall well-being and reducing the physiological impact of chronic stress.
Medical Treatments for Kidney Health
Medical management often involves controlling underlying conditions that affect eGFR. For high blood pressure, medications like ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) or ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers) are frequently prescribed. These medications help relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and protect the kidneys from further damage. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is important to ensure it remains within a healthy range, typically below 140/90 mmHg, or lower if diabetes is also present.
For those with diabetes, maintaining stable blood sugar levels is important for preserving kidney function. This often involves prescribed oral medications or insulin. Controlling cholesterol levels, often with statins, can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is closely linked to kidney disease. Healthcare providers also carefully manage nephrotoxic drugs, which can potentially harm the kidneys. This includes monitoring dosages and considering alternatives if a patient has existing kidney issues.
Consulting Your Healthcare Provider
Understanding your eGFR results and kidney health requires personalized medical guidance. It is important to discuss your eGFR readings and any concerns with your doctor or a nephrologist, a kidney specialist. Regular check-ups allow healthcare professionals to monitor your kidney function and provide tailored advice. This collaboration ensures that necessary lifestyle adjustments or medical treatments are appropriately managed for your specific health needs.