The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, or eGFR, is an indicator of kidney health, showing how effectively these organs function. It reflects your kidneys’ capacity to filter waste from your blood. Understanding this number is important for assessing overall well-being. This article will explain the significance of an eGFR of 97.
Understanding eGFR
eGFR stands for estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, which indicates how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood. Tiny filters called glomeruli within your kidneys clean the blood by removing toxins and excess water, which then leave the body as urine. Your eGFR value represents how many milliliters of waste your kidneys can filter per minute per 1.73 square meters of body surface area.
It is calculated using a blood test that assesses creatinine levels, a waste product from muscle metabolism. Other factors like age, sex, and sometimes height and weight are also incorporated for a personalized estimate. A higher eGFR indicates better kidney function, showing the kidneys’ efficiency in removing harmful substances from the bloodstream.
What an eGFR of 97 Means
An eGFR of 97 is within the normal range for most adults, indicating excellent kidney function. An eGFR above 90 is classified as normal. This means your kidneys are effectively filtering waste from your blood, performing their duties at a high capacity.
While eGFR can vary slightly with age, a reading of 97 generally signifies robust kidney health regardless of age. This result is a positive indication, suggesting your kidneys are functioning optimally with no immediate concerns about impairment.
eGFR and Kidney Health Stages
An eGFR of 97 typically places an individual in Stage 1 of chronic kidney disease (CKD), defined by an eGFR of 90 or higher. This stage indicates normal or high kidney function, though it may involve other signs of kidney damage, such as protein in the urine, assessed through additional tests. Without other signs of kidney damage, an eGFR of 97 points to healthy kidneys.
Maintaining kidney health with an eGFR of 97 involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits to support optimal function. This includes managing blood pressure, as high blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease. If you have diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels is also important to protect kidney function. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting processed foods and excessive sodium, also contribute to kidney health.