What does gfr measure

These filters help remove waste and excess fluid from the blood. A GFR test estimates how much blood passes through these filters each minute. A GFR can be measured directly, but it is a complicated test, requiring specialized providers. To get an estimate, your provider will use a method known as a GFR calculator. A GFR calculator is a type of mathematical formula that estimates the rate of filtration.

It does this by comparing the results of a blood test that measures creatinine, a waste product filtered by the kidneys, with other information about you. This information includes some or all of the following:. A GFR test is used to help diagnose kidney disease at an early stage, when it is most treatable. GFR may also be used to monitor people with chronic kidney disease CKD or other conditions that cause kidney damage.

These include diabetes and high blood pressure. But you may need a GFR test if you are at higher risk of getting kidney disease. Risk factors include:. A GFR below 60 may mean kidney disease. A GFR of 15 or lower may mean kidney failure. In adults, the normal eGFR number is more than See chart below for average estimated eGFR based on age.

Skip to main content. Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Your kidneys filter your blood by removing waste and extra water to make urine. What to expect A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the test There are typically no restrictions after blood is drawn for the test. 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. What are the symptoms of CKD? Most people with CKD have no symptoms until their kidneys are about to fail.

The only way to know if you have kidney disease is to get tested. The sooner kidney disease is found, the sooner you can take steps to begin treatment and keep your kidneys healthier longer.

How do you check for CKD? A blood test and a urine test are used to find kidney disease. Because you are at risk, you should get these tests regularly:. Can CKD get better? CKD usually will not get better and is likely to get worse.

Treatment helps slow kidney disease and keep the kidneys healthier longer. How is CKD treated? Treatment includes keeping blood pressure at the level set by your provider, eating foods with less salt and the right amount of protein, and controlling blood sugar if you have diabetes.

Are there medications for CKD? People with CKD often take medicines to lower blood pressure, control blood sugar, and lower blood cholesterol. Will I ever need dialysis? With proper management, you may never need dialysis or, at least, not for a very long time.