You should worry about your eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) when it's consistently below 60. This indicates your kidneys may not be functioning properly. An eGFR below 15 signifies kidney failure.
Understanding eGFR and Kidney Function
Your eGFR is a measure of how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood. A higher eGFR is better, reflecting healthy kidney function. A lower eGFR suggests reduced kidney function and may indicate kidney disease.
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eGFR below 60: This warrants immediate attention and discussion with your doctor. It suggests your kidneys aren't working optimally and may require further investigation and management. The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) and multiple other sources (https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/can-my-gfr-get-better, https://www.kidney.org/kidney-failure-risk-factor-estimated-glomerular-filtration-rate-egfr, https://www.kidneyfund.org/all-about-kidneys/tests/blood-test-egfr) confirm this threshold as a significant indicator of potential kidney issues.
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eGFR below 15: This is a serious indication of kidney failure, requiring immediate medical attention.
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eGFR above 60: While generally considered healthy, a declining eGFR, even if still above 60, should be monitored by your doctor (https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/weak-kidneys-pay-attention-but-dont-worry-excessively).
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Symptoms: Most people won't experience symptoms until their eGFR falls below 20-25 (https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/my-egfr-is-below-normal-do-i-have-a-kidney-disease). Don't rely on symptoms alone; regular monitoring is crucial.
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Regular Testing: If you are at risk for kidney disease, regular eGFR testing is vital. Your doctor can advise on appropriate testing frequency. (https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/professionals/advanced-search/explain-kidney-test-results)
In short: Don't ignore a consistently low eGFR. Discuss any concerns with your doctor, especially if your eGFR is below 60. Early detection and management of kidney issues significantly improve outcomes.
