In a blood test is a low "glom filter rate" something to worry about or require treatment?

Question

In a blood test is a low "glom filter rate" something to worry about or require treatment?

Answer 1

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is considered the gold standard for identifying the level of kidney function in healthy and affected individuals. As defined by the National Kidney Disease Foundation, kidney damage and/or a GFR of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 for >3 months is indicative of CKD( Chronic Kidney disease.

Your doctor can calculate it from the results of your blood creatinine test, your age, race, gender .and other factors.

.The earlier kidney disease is detected, the better the chance of slowing or stopping its progression.

Risk factors for kidney disease (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure, family history, older age, ethnic group) .  Research findings in H arvard university found  that a low car, and high protein diet ( 92 median/day) can cause   kidney damage.  

If your GFR falls below 30 you will need to see a kidney disease specialist (called a nephrologist), Your kidney doctor will speak to you about treatments for kidney failure like dialysis or kidney transplant.

A GFR below 15 indicates that you need to start one of these treatments.

Glomerular filtration rate is the best test to measure your level of kidney function and determine your stage of kidney disease

 0) Normal kidney function – GFR above 90ml/min/1.73m2 and no proteinuria

1) CKD1 – GFR above 90ml/min/1.73m2 with evidence of kidney damage

2) Stage 2- CKD mild reduction in GFR with Kidney damage and mild decrease in GFR 60 to 89

Stage 3 CKD Moderate decrease in GFR  (30-59 mL/min/1.73 m2)

Stage 4 CKD- Severe decrease in GFR  (15-29 mL/min/1.73 m2)Stage

Stage 5 CKD-established Kidney failure (dialysis or kidney transplant / permanent renant replacement RRT is needed) Less than 15 (GFR <15 mL/min/1.73 m2.

So the answer to your question.  I wouldn't be too concerned if it's not in the Stage 4 or 5.  But to play it safe . Avoid a high protein diet and too much sodium.  

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