🧪 Understanding

GFR or eGFR

Simple explanation of GFR and eGFR kidney test results. Learn what GFR numbers mean, normal ranges, causes of low GFR, and when to worry—explained in clear, easy language.

Understanding GFR or eGFR

If you’ve had kidney blood tests done, you probably saw a number called GFR or eGFR.

It is one of the most important measurements doctors use to check kidney health — and one of the most confusing for patients.

🔍 What Does GFR Mean?

GFR stands for “Glomerular Filtration Rate.”

In simple terms:

👉 GFR is an estimate of how well your kidneys are filtering your blood.

It shows how efficiently your kidneys are cleaning waste and extra fluid out of your body.

🧮 What Is eGFR?

You may notice the letter “e” in front of GFR.

eGFR = estimated GFR

Doctors do not measure GFR directly.
Instead, it is calculated using:

a blood test result (usually creatinine)
your age
your sex
sometimes your body size

So eGFR is not a guess — it is a medical estimate based on real lab information.

📊 What Is a Normal GFR Number?

Here is a simple guide to understand GFR ranges:

90 or above: Normal kidney function
60–89: Slightly reduced (may still be normal for some people)
45–59: Mild to moderate decrease
30–44: Moderate to severe decrease
15–29: Severe decrease
Below 15: Possible kidney failure

Most healthy adults have a GFR somewhere between 90 and 120.

🕒 Does GFR Change With Age?

Yes.

GFR naturally gets a little lower as people get older.

For example:

A GFR of 65 might be concerning in a young adult
The same number could be normal for someone in their 70s

That is why doctors look at your overall health — not just one number.

❗ What Does a Low GFR Mean?

A lower-than-normal GFR can mean:

your kidneys are not filtering as well
there may be kidney disease
you might be dehydrated
a temporary illness is affecting the kidneys

One low GFR result does not automatically mean chronic kidney disease.

Doctors usually repeat the test before making any diagnosis.

🔁 Can GFR Go Back Up?

Sometimes — yes.

GFR can improve if the cause is temporary, such as:

dehydration
a urinary tract infection
certain medications
a short-term illness

If the drop is due to long-term kidney damage, it may not return completely to normal, but it can often be stabilized.

🩺 What Can Cause a Low GFR?

Common causes include:

diabetes
high blood pressure
kidney infections
kidney stones
heart problems
certain medications
dehydration

Your doctor will usually look for these reasons if your GFR is lower than expected.

🔬 How Often Should GFR Be Checked?

That depends on your situation.

Doctors may:

repeat the test if it is abnormal
monitor it every few months if there is concern
check it yearly if you have risk factors

Regular monitoring helps show whether kidney function is stable or changing.

🧭 What Usually Happens Next?

If your GFR result is low, your doctor may:

repeat the blood test
order a urine test
review your medications
check your blood pressure
look for underlying causes

Many people only need monitoring, not treatment.

❓ Common Questions About GFR

Is a GFR of 60 bad?
Not always. It depends on your age and whether the number stays stable over time.

Can drinking more water raise GFR?
If you are dehydrated, yes. Better hydration can improve the reading.

Can medications affect GFR?
Yes. Some medicines can temporarily change kidney test results.

Does exercise affect GFR?
Heavy exercise right before labs can sometimes slightly affect results.

Can stress lower GFR?
Stress alone usually does not, but dehydration or illness related to stress might.

🚩 When to Worry

Seek medical help quickly if a low GFR is combined with:

very little urine
severe swelling
shortness of breath
confusion
extreme fatigue

These can be signs of a more serious problem.

📌 Where to Go Next

To understand related results, visit:

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