rate of kidney - #20530
I am really worried about my kidney health right now. I went in for a routine checkup last week, and my doctor mentioned something about the rate of kidney function being off. I didn’t quite catch all the details, but I remember them saying my glomerular filtration rate, or whatever it is called, might be lower than normal. I’m only 35, and I don't have any major health problems. I thought I was doing okay! I've been feeling super tired lately, like, more than usual, and I've noticed my ankles swelling a bit too. Thought maybe it was just stress from work or dehydration, but now I’m not so sure. The doctor said we might need to do more tests to get a clearer picture of the rate of kidney function. I guess I just feel overwhelmed because my family has a history of kidney issues, and I’ve never thought this could happen to me! Has anyone else experienced a change in their kidney rate of kidney function unexpectedly? How serious is this and what can I do to help? I want to understand the rate of kidney health better and if there's anything specific I should be cautious about. Any advice or experiences would really help!
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Doctors' responses
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a key measure of kidney function, essentially reflecting how well your kidneys are filtering blood. A lower than normal GFR can indicate some degree of kidney dysfunction, which might align with symptoms like increased fatigue and ankle swelling that you’re experiencing. Given that you’re 35 and otherwise healthy, several factors could be contributing to this, such as dehydration, high blood pressure, or an underlying condition that might not have apparent symptoms yet. While family history of kidney issues can increase your risk, early detection and addressing lifestyle factors can have a big impact. It’s important to follow up on your doctor’s recommendation to do further tests. These might help clarify the extent and cause of any kidney issues. Labs can include blood tests for creatinine levels and urine tests to check for protein or other abnormalities. Aside from medical investigations, you might find managing your blood pressure or blood sugar if relevant, staying adequately hydrated, and reducing sodium intake helpful. Also avoid over-the-counter pain meds like NSAIDs if not necessary, as they can affect kidney function. It’s essential to address these issues proactively because while some changes in kidney function can be transient, ongoing issues may require medical management to prevent progression. For now, await further test results to better understand the cause of the change in function and partner with your healthcare provider on a suitable plan.
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