Kidney Function Insights
Age: 45 years | Height: 5'5" | Weight: 180 lbs History of developing kidney stones; a parent required dialysis. Recently, I underwent blood tests, and I've been feeling uneasy about the results. However, my primary care physician reassured me that there is no cause for concern. ### Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) Expected range: Greater than 59 mL/min/1.73m² Reported value: **83** ### Chronic Kidney Disease Staging 1. Normal kidney function - GFR of 90 or higher 2. Mild decrease in kidney function - GFR between 89 and 60 3a. Mild to moderate decrease in kidney function - GFR from 59 to 45 3b. Moderate to severe decrease in kidney function - GFR from 44 to 30 4. Severe decrease in kidney function - GFR between 29 and 15 5. Kidney failure - GFR under 15 Could someone clarify why a mild decrease in kidney function is considered non-threatening?
Answers (1)
2/16/2026, 10:10:32 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your concerns about kidney function are valid, particularly with your history of kidney stones and family medical history. I appreciate that you've reached out for clarity about your test results, especially the GFR reading of 83, which signals a mild decrease in kidney function but is considered stable and non-threatening at this stage.
Key Points:
- GFR Explanation: The Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) indicates how well your kidneys are filtering blood. A GFR of 83 suggests that your kidney function is slightly reduced.
- Why It's Non-Threatening: In the context of chronic kidney disease (CKD), a GFR between 60 and 89 is categorized as a mild decrease. This stage typically doesn't lead to symptoms or serious health issues for most people. It's often stable and manageable with lifestyle adjustments.
Next Steps:
- Maintain Hydration: Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day, as proper hydration helps support kidney function.
- Dietary Adjustments: Consider following a balanced diet that is low in sodium, processed foods, and excess protein. Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Regular Check-ups: Continue monitoring your kidney function through regular blood tests as recommended by your physician to track any changes in your GFR.
- Active Lifestyle: Engage in regular physical activity as it can help maintain a healthy weight and manage blood pressure, both of which are beneficial for kidney health.
It's great that your physician doesn't see a cause for concern at this time. Should you experience any new symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination, it's wise to revisit this with your healthcare provider. Remember, proactive lifestyle choices can significantly aid in maintaining kidney health and preventing any further issues. Please feel free to ask if you need more specific advice or have other questions!
Related Questions
Potential Bladder Concerns Linked to Urinary Tract Infection: Clinical Correlation Advised
A 22-year-old female patient presents with a medical history marked by idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and increased prolactin levels, attributed to cabergoline usage, with no indication of tumors. Recently, she underwent a pelvic ultrasound after experiencing several months of amenorrhea followed by a prolonged menstrual cycle. The examination confirmed that both her uterus and ovaries appeared normal; however, observations indicated a moderately enlarged urinary bladder exhibiting minimal internal echoes, which may be suggestive of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Notably, the patient reports no symptoms typically associated with UTIs. Additionally, she mentioned experiencing intermittent kidney discomfort over the last few years. Despite inquiries with her healthcare providers, the results of her metabolic panel remained within normal limits, and they advised her not to be concerned unless she experiences hematuria or difficulties with urination, neither of which she has faced. The patient now expresses anxiety regarding her condition, questioning whether her concerns are valid or if she is overanalyzing the situation.
Reasons for Considering a Kidney Biopsy and Potential Implications
Greetings, I’ll keep this concise as I share my health concerns. **Current Medications:** - **Trintellix** 10mg (for depression and anxiety) - **Qelbree** 100mg (for ADHD) - **Meloxicam** 15mg (for pain, as needed; advised by my nephrologist to limit usage to every 3-4 days, though I had been taking it daily) - **Tizanidine** 4mg (for pain, as needed) **Diagnosed Conditions:** - Endometriosis - Hypermobility (not a formal diagnosis) - Depression, anxiety, and ADHD I am a 24-year-old female classified as obese but not morbidly so. Over the past few years, I have been struggling with persistent joint pain, lower back pain, chronic fatigue, and a lingering cough that is most pronounced at night. My partner has noted that this cough has persisted since we met four years ago. I regularly consult my primary care physician, who noted a slightly elevated ESR at 27; this prompted a referral to a rheumatologist. Additionally, I have gynecological complications, including a recently confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis, for which I am slated for surgery soon. The rheumatologist and her physician assistant have expressed uncertainty about my condition, as my lab results have generally returned normal (ANA negative, RF negative, etc.), and I show no visible signs of joint inflammation. The possibility of fibromyalgia has been raised, and a second rheumatologist also concurred, suggesting that I may have sleep apnea—something I am open to but prefer to investigate further before finalizing. A routine urinalysis revealed trace amounts of protein and 2+ occult blood. Subsequent testing showed a mild increase in urine albumin to creatinine ratio at 32. I planned to monitor this situation. A follow-up test indicated 1+ protein in the urine (no blood), which was concerning. My PCP had referred me to a nephrologist due to the earlier trace protein result, leading to the scheduling of an appointment. After extensive lab testing, results returned largely normal, including no protein presence in my urine, aside from elevated ASO antibody levels (366) and some variations like monocytosis, which seems normal for me. The nephrologist mentioned the potential of IgA nephropathy and ANCA-related vasculitis, but tests for both were negative. A kidney ultrasound revealed increased echogenicity of both renal cortices; I understand this could suggest kidney disease or be within normal limits. Though I don't recall any recent strep infection, bloodwork suggests otherwise. I often feel unwell, so I might not notice symptoms if I do contract something. Could post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis be a consideration? Recently, I experienced a spike in blood pressure, hitting 181/85; I contemplated an emergency visit, but my pressure eventually returned to the 120s, albeit with a bad headache. This was unusual for me, as my blood pressure typically tends to be on the lower side. I also have mixed hyperlipidemia, likely of genetic origin given my family history. The nephrologist has suggested that a kidney biopsy may be necessary, and I feel anxious about the procedure and the associated pain. Based on what I’ve described, does it seem likely that a biopsy is warranted? Furthermore, considering this information, what could potentially be the underlying issue, and what steps should I take next to clarify my health situation (aside from focusing on weight management, diet, and exercise)? Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Concerns About Kidney Function
At a recent visit to my primary care physician, I was instructed to refrain from consuming any food or beverages prior to my appointment. The last time I had any liquids was at 9 PM, and my appointment was scheduled for 11:45 AM the following day. During this visit, blood tests were performed, revealing elevated creatinine levels of 1.05 mg, exceeding the normal limit of 1.02 mg, along with a reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 73. I'm uncertain whether these results might be influenced by dehydration and if a retest is necessary to confirm my kidney function.
Should I Consult a Healthcare Professional?
As a woman, I've been experiencing unusual urinary difficulties since yesterday. Each time I attempt to use the bathroom, I can only manage to urinate for about two to three seconds before a sharp, stabbing pain in my bladder forces me to stop. Although the urge to urinate persists, I'm unable to continue. I find myself visiting the restroom multiple times throughout the day, but each time results in only a small amount of urine and is cut short by discomfort. I also noticed some blood when I wiped, which initially led me to believe it was the onset of my menstrual period, as it's due soon. However, there was no further bleeding afterward. Additionally, while I am not certain if it's related, I recently became sexually active, always using protection during intercourse. What steps should I consider? What could be the underlying cause of these symptoms?
Presence of Blood in Urine
From time to time, I experience blood in my urine. Initially, I assumed this was due to dehydration. However, despite increasing my water intake significantly, the issue persists. I’ve already reached out to my physician for advice, but I’m curious if anyone else has experienced this. I'm a 38-year-old male, struggling with obesity, and currently taking Citalopram. My recent doctor's visit in November included lab tests, which all returned normal results. Prior to adjusting my hydration levels, I encountered an unusual symptom where my urination would intermittently stop, requiring me to exert pressure to complete the process. Thankfully, that issue has resolved since I've been more diligent about drinking water.