What is estimated gfr

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What is a glomerular filtration rate GFR test? This information includes some or all of the following: The results of a blood test that measures creatinine, a waste product filtered by the kidneys Age Weight Height Gender Race The eGFR is a simple test that can provide very accurate results.

What is it used for? Why do I need a GFR test? Risk factors include: Diabetes High blood pressure Family history of kidney failure Later stage kidney disease does cause symptoms.

So you may need a GFR test if you have any of the following symptoms: Urinating more or less often than usual Itching Fatigue Swelling in your arms, legs, or feet Muscle cramps Nausea and vomiting Loss of appetite. What happens during a GFR test? Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test? Are there any risks to the test? What do the results mean?

Is there anything else I need to know about a GFR test? Steps may include: Blood pressure medicines Medicines to control blood sugar if you have diabetes Lifestyle changes such as getting more exercise and maintaining a healthy weight Limiting alcohol Quitting smoking If you treat kidney disease early, you may be able to prevent kidney failure.

References American Kidney Fund [Internet]. Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins University; c Aside from CKD, creatinine levels can be affected by other factors, including diet, muscle mass, malnutrition, and other chronic illnesses.

CKD risk factors include:. Later stage CKD does cause symptoms. So you may need an eGFR test if you have any of the following symptoms:. There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly. You may need to fast not eat or drink or avoid certain foods for several hours before the test.

Your health care provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow. A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial.

The estimated glomerular filtration rate eGFR is an estimate of how well your kidneys are working. Currently the test considers your age, sex and race, among other things. AKF is reviewing the NKF-ASN recommendations and will update its outreach and educational programs ongoing as additional information and evidence evolves.

Your eGFR is an estimated number based on a blood test and your age, sex, body type and race. However, the eGFR may not be accurate if you are younger than 18, pregnant, very overweight or very muscular. In addition, other tests such as an ultrasound or a kidney biopsy may be ordered to find a cause of your kidney disease. You will have a blood test to see how much creatinine is in your blood.

Creatinine is a waste product in your blood that comes from your muscles. Healthy kidneys take creatinine out of your blood and send it out of your body through your urine. If your kidneys are not working the way they should, creatinine will build up in your blood.