The kidney is one of the most vital organs, the failure of which can pose a significant threat to a person’s life. If you have symptoms of kidney disease, see a doctor immediately and get tested. Of the many tests that are done to study the proper function of the kidneys, a GFR test is the best and the most accurate. It helps measure the amount of creatinine in the blood, a breakdown product that is filtered by the kidneys. The test is also used to analyze the stage of kidney damage. The higher the presence of creatinine, the higher the stage of the disease.
How to perform the exam?
A blood sample is needed to perform the GFR test. As mentioned above, blood tests for creatinine level along with various other factors to estimate glomerular filtration rate. Different formulas are used to analyze the condition in children and adults. The formula includes the following:
- age
- Gender
- Height
- Weight
- Ethnicity
- Blood creatinine measurement
Test preparations
Your doctor may very well ask you to stop taking your usual medications as they can affect the test results. These drugs include drugs for stomach acid and antibodies. Don’t stop your medications without talking to your doctor. Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, as the test result is affected by pregnancy.
Normal test results
According to the National Kidney Foundation, normal test results typically range from 90-120 ml / min / 1.73 m2. Older people may have a lower level than normal TFG levels because it decreases with age.
Abnormal test results
A level below 60 ml / min / 1.73 m2 for three consecutive months or more is a sign of fatal kidney disease. On the other hand, a GFR less than 15 ml / min / 1.73 m2 is considered a sign of kidney failure and should be treated immediately.
How will the exam be?
Arteries and veins differ in size from person to person and from one side of the body to the other. Getting a blood sample can be normal for some, but painful for many. The prick can feel a bit stingy. Once the blood is drawn, there may be a slight bruise that soon disappears. The test does not present any health risks as such if performed with a disinfected needle and new injections.
Alternative risk factors
There are many other reasons why you can develop kidney disease. Some of them are the following:
- Diabetes
- Family history of kidney disease
- Heart disease
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- High blood pressure
- Urinary obstruction