The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a measurement that provides insight into how well your kidneys are functioning. This number estimates how efficiently your kidneys filter waste products from your blood. Understanding your eGFR is a step towards monitoring kidney health, as it can indicate kidney disease and allow for early detection.
What is eGFR
eGFR stands for estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate. It assesses the rate at which blood is filtered by the glomeruli, tiny filtering units in your kidneys that remove waste and excess water. The eGFR is derived from a blood test measuring creatinine levels, a waste product from muscle activity, along with factors like age, sex, and body size. A higher eGFR indicates better kidney function, while a lower number suggests reduced filtration capacity.
Interpreting an eGFR of 43
An eGFR reading of 43 mL/min/1.73m² indicates Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). It falls into Stage 3b CKD, characterized by a moderate to severe reduction in kidney function, with eGFR values between 30 and 44 mL/min/1.73m². At this level, kidneys filter at approximately 43% of their normal capacity, but this does not mean kidney failure. Waste products can build up, potentially leading to complications like high blood pressure and bone disease. While some individuals may experience symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, or swelling, many show no obvious signs, making regular monitoring important.
Factors Influencing eGFR Levels
Several conditions and factors can contribute to a reduced eGFR. High blood pressure can damage small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their filtering ability. Diabetes is a common cause of kidney damage, as high blood sugar levels harm the kidney’s filtering units.
Heart disease and obesity also strain the kidneys, which can decrease eGFR. Certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some arthritis medicines, can affect kidney function and should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Age is another factor, as eGFR naturally declines with increasing age, though a low eGFR in older individuals doesn’t always signify chronic kidney disease.
Next Steps After an eGFR of 43
An eGFR of 43 requires consultation with a healthcare provider for evaluation and management. Additional tests may include a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) to check for protein in the urine, which indicates kidney damage. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans may be performed to assess kidney structure and rule out other issues.
Regular monitoring of kidney function is important, typically every three months, to track changes. Lifestyle modifications are recommended, such as adopting a kidney-friendly diet focusing on less processed foods and fewer animal-based products. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity also supports kidney health. Managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes through medication and lifestyle adjustments is beneficial in slowing kidney disease progression.