What if your eGFR value is too low?

A normal eGFR value is usually above 90 ml/min/1.73 m². Abnormal eGFR values may indicate renal damage or failure and require further investigation.

eGFR, or estimated glomerular filtration rate, is an important measure of kidney function. It helps assess how well your kidneys filter blood and remove waste products. In this blog, we discuss what a normal eGFR value is, the consequences of an eGFR value that is too low, and what steps you can take to address abnormalities.

What are the CKD-EPI formulas?

The CKD-EPI (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) formulas are one of the methods used to calculate eGFR. They are more accurate than older formulas and take into account factors such as serum creatinine, age, gender and race. These formulas are widely used in clinical practice to assess renal function.

What is a normal eGFR value?

The normal eGFR value varies depending on age, sex and body size, but is usually above 90 ml/min/1.73 sq. ft. A value within this range indicates that your kidneys are functioning properly. At Bloedwaardentest.nl, the reference values applicable to you are always personally reported depending on gender and age.

What does an eGFR value that is too low mean?

An excessively low eGFR value may indicate kidney damage or renal failure. The eGFR value helps determine the severity of kidney disease, which can range from mild kidney function loss to end-stage kidney failure. Symptoms of an eGFR value that is too low may include:

• Fatigue: Due to an accumulation of waste products in the blood.
• Swelling (edema): Especially in the legs, ankles and feet due to fluid retention.
• Changes in urine production: such as frothy urine, frequent urination or less urination.
• Shortness of breath: Due to fluid accumulation in the lungs.
• Nausea and vomiting: Due to accumulation of waste products in the blood.

What can you do when your eGFR value is too low?

If your eGFR value falls outside the normal range, it is important to identify the underlying cause and take appropriate action. At Bloedwaardentest.nl, you can have several additional tests performed to gain more insight into your kidney health, such as:

• Renal function tests: this includes measurements of other kidney-related parameters such as creatinine and urea.
• Blood tests for electrolytes: To assess disturbances in sodium, potassium and other important minerals.
• Urinalysis: To measure the presence of protein, blood or other abnormalities in the urine.
• Imaging studies: such as ultrasound or MRI of the kidneys to assess structural abnormalities.

Treatment and lifestyle modifications

Depending on the cause of the low eGFR value, different treatments and lifestyle modifications may be needed:

• Medication: To control underlying conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
• Dietary changes: Such as limiting protein, sodium and potassium in your diet.
• Regular monitoring: To monitor kidney function closely and intervene early if deterioration occurs.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support the kidneys.

In brief

It is important to keep your eGFR value balanced for good kidney health. Regular monitoring through a blood test can help detect and address abnormalities early.