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GFR (glomerular filtration rate)

GFR test reflects the kidneys’ ability to cleanse the blood, that is, their ability to remove excess water and waste material from the body.

GRF – Glomerular filtration rate and kidney health

What is GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) used for?

Kidney function has long been assessed through creatinine measurements. However, GFR is a more accurate measure of kidney function than just creatinine.

Why is GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) measured?

GRF test reflects the ability of the kidneys to purify the blood from excess water and waste products. 

GFR is measured to determine or to monitor kidney function. It is measured when assessing overall health, determining the causes of abnormal symptoms, in the context of kidney-affecting diseases (for example diabetes, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases), and when starting or adjusting medications that may affect the kidneys.

Reference values for GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate)

GFR is influenced by the same factors as creatinine. Creatinine comes from muscles, which is why high muscle mass raises creatinine level and low muscle mass decreases it. 

Men produce more creatinine than women because men have more muscle mass than women. 

Age also influences the values as kidney function naturally deteriorates and muscle mass often decreases with age. 

Due to the formula, decreased kidney function is manifested as an increase in creatinine but a decrease in GFR. 

FAQ

On average, adults urinate about 200–400 milliliters at a time. This amount can vary from person to person and depends on factors such as the amount of fluid consumed and the capacity of the bladder. It is normal for urination frequency and volumes to vary throughout the day.

Dialysis treatment can be performed in two ways: hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. In hemodialysis, the patient’s blood is passed through a machine that filters out waste products and excess fluid from the blood, and the cleaned blood is returned to the patient. In peritoneal dialysis, dialysis fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a catheter, where it collects waste products and excess fluid, and the fluid is changed regularly.

Adults typically urinate 1–2 liters per day. The amount of urine can vary based on fluid intake, environmental temperature, and the individual’s health condition. It is important to drink sufficient fluids throughout the day to maintain good hydration and health.

The frequency of dialysis depends on the patient’s health condition and the doctor’s recommendation. Typically, hemodialysis is performed three times a week, with each session lasting about 4 hours. Peritoneal dialysis can be done manually several times a day or mechanically overnight, where the treatment occurs daily.

The treatment of kidney failure depends on its severity and cause. Treatment may include medication, dietary changes, fluid intake regulation, and in some cases, dialysis or kidney transplantation.

Kidney failure is typically diagnosed through blood and urine tests that measure values indicative of kidney function, such as creatinine and urea. Imaging studies may also be conducted if necessary.

Kidney function can be supported by healthy lifestyle habits, such as adequate fluid intake, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Kidney injuries can occur due to long-term high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, certain medications, or toxic substances such as heavy metals. Inflammations and autoimmune diseases can also damage the kidneys.

Symptoms of kidney failure include fatigue, swelling especially in the legs and eyelids, changes in the color and amount of urine, and a general feeling of illness.

Kidney issues can manifest as back or flank pain, high blood pressure, changes in urine color, and recurrent urinary tract infections.

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