Getting your lab results back can be confusing, especially when you see numbers like "eGFR" that don't make much sense. This guide will help you understand what your eGFR test results mean, when you should be concerned, and what steps you can take next.

What Exactly is eGFR?

eGFR stands for "estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate." In simple terms, it's a number that tells you how well your kidneys are working to filter waste from your blood. Your kidneys are like your body's natural filtration system, and the eGFR gives doctors a way to measure how efficiently they're doing their job.

Think of It This Way

If your kidneys were a coffee filter, the eGFR would tell you how quickly and effectively that filter is working. A higher number generally means better filtering, while a lower number might indicate your filter is getting clogged or damaged.

Understanding Your Numbers

Here's what different eGFR ranges typically mean for adults:

Your eGFR Number What It Means Should You Worry?
90 or higher Normal kidney function Generally good news
60-89 Mild decrease, often normal with age Usually not concerning if stable
45-59 Mild to moderate decrease Monitor with your doctor
30-44 Moderate to severe decrease Needs medical attention
15-29 Severe decrease Requires specialist care
Below 15 Kidney failure Immediate medical care needed

When One Test Isn't Enough

Here's something important that many people don't realize: a single eGFR test result doesn't tell the whole story. Your kidneys can be affected by many temporary factors, and doctors usually want to see trends over time rather than relying on one number.

Why Your Doctor Might Repeat the Test

  • Recent illness: Being sick can temporarily affect kidney function
  • Medications: Some drugs can influence the results
  • Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can skew results
  • Timing: Results can vary slightly from day to day

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

When you get your eGFR results, consider asking your healthcare provider these questions:

📊 About Your Specific Results

"What does my eGFR number mean for my overall health?"

"Is this result concerning, or within normal range for someone my age?"

📈 About Trends

"How does this compare to my previous tests?"

"Should we be monitoring any changes over time?"

💊 About Next Steps

"Do I need any additional tests?"

"Are there lifestyle changes that could help?"

What Affects Your eGFR Results?

Several factors can influence your eGFR numbers, and understanding these can help you interpret your results better:

Age-Related Changes

It's completely normal for eGFR to decrease slightly as you get older. A healthy 70-year-old might have an eGFR of 70-75 and still have perfectly normal kidney function for their age. This is why doctors consider age when evaluating your results.

Muscle Mass Matters

Since eGFR is calculated using creatinine (a waste product from muscle), people with more muscle mass might have slightly different baseline numbers. This is why the calculation takes into account whether you're male or female, as men typically have more muscle mass.

Recent Changes

Significant weight loss, starting new medications, or recent illnesses can all affect your eGFR. Always let your doctor know about any major changes in your health or lifestyle.

When to Be Concerned

While it's easy to worry about any number that's not in the "normal" range, here are the situations that typically warrant closer attention:

  • Rapid decline: A significant drop in eGFR over a short period
  • Consistently low: Multiple tests showing eGFR below 60
  • Symptoms present: Fatigue, swelling, changes in urination patterns
  • Other abnormal tests: Protein in urine or high blood pressure

Practical Steps You Can Take

Regardless of your current eGFR level, there are several things you can do to support your kidney health:

Everyday Kidney Care

Stay hydrated: Drink enough water throughout the day

Monitor blood pressure: Keep it in a healthy range

Control blood sugar: Especially important if you have diabetes

Be medication-aware: Some over-the-counter drugs can affect kidneys

Don't smoke: Smoking can damage blood vessels in kidneys

Working With Your Healthcare Team

Your eGFR results are just one piece of your overall health puzzle. The best approach is to work closely with your healthcare provider to understand what your numbers mean for you specifically. They can explain how your age, medical history, and other factors affect the interpretation of your results.

Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to your health. Understanding your eGFR results helps you make informed decisions and take an active role in maintaining your kidney health.

Conclusion

Understanding your eGFR test results doesn't have to be overwhelming. While the numbers might seem mysterious at first, they provide valuable information about how well your kidneys are functioning. The key is to look at trends over time, consider your individual circumstances, and work closely with your healthcare team to interpret what the results mean for you.

Most importantly, remember that one test result doesn't define your health. Your doctor will consider your eGFR along with other tests, your symptoms, and your overall health picture to provide the best care possible.

Calculate Your eGFR

Want to understand your kidney function better? Use our eGFR calculator to see what your numbers might look like based on your latest lab work.

Try the eGFR Calculator