WHY GFR IS LOW

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a kidney function test that measures how much blood passes through the kidneys each minute. It gives insight into how well the kidneys are working and how efficiently they are filtering waste products from the blood.

GFR can be determined using a blood or urine test. A normal GFR for adults is between 90 and 120 milliliters per minute (mL/min). If GFR drops below 60 mL/min, it is considered low and may indicate kidney damage or disease.

Causes of Low GFR

There are numerous factors that can contribute to low GFR, including:

1. Diabetes:

Diabetes, both type 1 and type 2, can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to reduced GFR. High blood sugar levels can also directly harm the kidney cells.

2. High Blood Pressure:

Chronic high blood pressure can strain the kidneys and cause damage to the blood vessels, impairing GFR.

3. Kidney Disease:

Various kidney diseases, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), glomerulonephritis, and polycystic kidney disease, can directly affect the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products, resulting in low GFR.

4. Heart Disease:

Congestive heart failure can lead to reduced blood flow to the kidneys, which can decrease GFR.

5. Autoimmune Diseases:

Certain autoimmune diseases, like lupus and vasculitis, can inflame the kidneys and cause damage to the glomeruli, leading to low GFR.

6. Medications:

Some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aminoglycoside antibiotics, can temporarily or permanently impair kidney function and lower GFR.

7. Age:

As we age, our kidneys’ function naturally declines, resulting in a gradual decrease in GFR.

Symptoms of Low GFR

In the early stages of low GFR, there may be no noticeable symptoms. As GFR continues to decline, symptoms may develop, including:

• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Swelling in the hands, feet, and ankles
• High blood pressure
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Foamy or bubbly urine
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle cramps
• Itchy skin

Treatment for Low GFR

The treatment for low GFR depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, treating the underlying condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can help improve GFR. Other treatments may include:

• Medications to lower blood pressure
• Medications to manage diabetes
• Dietary changes, such as reducing salt intake and following a kidney-friendly diet
• Dialysis to remove waste products from the blood if GFR is severely low
• Kidney transplant

Prognosis

The prognosis for low GFR depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of kidney damage and improve the chances of maintaining good kidney function.

Conclusion

Low GFR is a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. It is important to monitor kidney function regularly, especially if you have risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection and treatment can help preserve kidney function and prevent complications.

FAQs

1. What is a normal GFR range?

The normal GFR range for adults is between 90 and 120 mL/min.

2. What are the symptoms of low GFR?

Symptoms of low GFR may include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, swelling in the hands, feet, and ankles, high blood pressure, frequent urination, foamy or bubbly urine, loss of appetite, muscle cramps, and itchy skin.

3. What causes low GFR?

Low GFR can be caused by diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, heart disease, autoimmune diseases, medications, and age.

4. How is low GFR treated?

Treatment for low GFR depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, dietary changes, dialysis, or kidney transplant.

5. What is the prognosis for low GFR?

The prognosis for low GFR depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of kidney damage and improve the chances of maintaining good kidney function.