eGFR explained
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
eGFR stands for estimated glomerular filtration rate. It's a blood test result that shows how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. Think of your kidneys as a filter — eGFR tells you roughly how much blood your kidneys can clean each minute. A lower number means the kidneys are not working as well as they should.
Key facts
- eGFR is calculated from a simple blood test for creatinine, which is a waste product from your muscles.
- It's reported as a number in milliliters per minute (mL/min). A normal eGFR is usually 90 or above.
- A single eGFR result isn't enough to diagnose kidney disease — your doctor will look at your results over time and consider other factors like age, sex, and overall health.
eGFR testing is very common, especially for people with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, or those over 60. About 1 in 10 adults in the UK have some degree of chronic kidney disease, which is often found through eGFR testing.
eGFR is used for anyone whose kidney function needs checking, but it's especially important for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, a family history of kidney failure, or those taking certain long-term medications.
Symptoms
- Severe shortness of breath or chest pain that won’t go away
- Confusion or passing out
- Passing very little or no urine for more than 12 hours
- ⚠Swelling in your face, hands, or legs that gets worse quickly
- ⚠Nausea or vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
- ⚠Feeling unusually tired or weak
Common symptoms
- eGFR itself doesn’t cause symptoms — it’s a test result. But a low eGFR may be linked to symptoms of reduced kidney function, such as feeling tired, swelling in the legs or ankles, or changes in how often you need to urinate.
Symptoms in children
- In children, a low eGFR might show up as poor growth, frequent vomiting, or unusual thirst. Always talk to your child’s doctor if you notice these signs.
Symptoms in older adults
- In older adults, eGFR naturally declines with age. Symptoms of low eGFR may include confusion, loss of appetite, or difficulty concentrating. These can be subtle, so routine checks are important.
Causes
Main causes
- High blood pressure that damages kidney blood vessels over time
- Diabetes, especially if blood sugar levels are not well controlled
- Glomerulonephritis — inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units
- Kidney infections or blockages (like kidney stones) that affect function
- Some medications (like certain painkillers or antibiotics) that can harm kidneys if used too much
Risk factors
- Age over 60
- Family history of kidney disease
- Having diabetes or high blood pressure
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking or heavy alcohol use
- Heart disease or a history of heart attacks or strokes
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you suddenly notice swelling, reduced urine output, or severe back pain, see a doctor urgently.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease, get your kidneys checked at least once a year.
- If you feel tired a lot, have changes in appetite, or notice foamy or dark urine, talk to your GP.
Diagnosis
eGFR is not a diagnosis itself — it’s a number from a blood test. Your doctor will use it along with other tests to see how your kidneys are doing. They look at the trend over time, not just one result. A persistently low eGFR (below 60 for 3 months or more) suggests chronic kidney disease.
Tests that may be done
- Blood test for creatinine — the main test used to calculate eGFR
- Urine test (ACR or PCR) to check for protein or blood in your urine
- Blood pressure check — high pressure can damage kidneys
- Sometimes an ultrasound scan of your kidneys to see their size and structure
What to expect at your appointment
Your doctor will take a sample of your blood — usually from your arm — and send it to a lab. You don’t need to do any special preparation for eGFR, but you might be asked to avoid certain medications or foods beforehand. Results usually come back in a few days. Your doctor will explain what your number means and whether any follow-up is needed.
Treatment
Treatment for a low eGFR focuses on protecting your kidneys and treating the underlying cause. It’s not about ‘fixing’ the eGFR number — it’s about slowing further kidney damage and managing symptoms.
Self-care at home
- Stay well hydrated, but don’t overdo it — follow your doctor’s advice on fluid intake
- Avoid taking high doses of non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen unless prescribed
- Check your blood pressure regularly at home if you have high blood pressure or diabetes
- Follow your healthcare provider’s advice on any medicines you take, including over‑the‑counter ones
Medical treatments
Treatment may include medications to lower blood pressure (like ACE inhibitors or ARBs — your doctor will choose the right one for you), medicines to control blood sugar if you have diabetes, and drugs to help with extra fluid or mineral imbalances in your blood. Never stop or change your kidney medicines without talking to your doctor. In advanced stages, you may be referred to a kidney specialist (nephrologist) for more specialised care.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is not a treatment for low eGFR itself. If kidney failure occurs, you might need long‑term dialysis (a machine that filters your blood) or a kidney transplant. These are options your doctor will discuss with you when the time comes.
Living with this condition
Living with a low eGFR mostly means taking good care of your health. It often doesn’t change your daily life much in the early stages. You’ll need regular check‑ups and to be mindful of your blood pressure, blood sugar, and diet. Most people can still work, travel, and enjoy their hobbies.
Lifestyle tips
- Don’t smoke — smoking harms kidney blood vessels
- Limit alcohol to recommended levels (no more than 14 units a week in the UK)
- Stay active — moderate exercise like walking helps control blood pressure and weight
- Ask your doctor before using any herbal supplements or over‑the‑counter medicines
Diet and exercise
A kidney‑friendly diet often means eating less salt, less processed food, and not too much protein. Your doctor or a dietitian can give you specific advice based on your eGFR number. Exercise is safe and encouraged, but check with your team before starting something very strenuous.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
It can be worrying to learn that your kidneys are not working perfectly. Some people feel anxious or down. You are not alone. Talk to your doctor, a counsellor, or a support group. If you ever feel hopeless or have thoughts of hurting yourself, contact a crisis helpline or your local emergency services right away.
Prevention
You can’t always prevent kidney decline, but you can greatly reduce your risk by managing known causes. Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar under control, eat a balanced diet, don’t smoke, and stay at a healthy weight. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, regular check‑ups are key to catching problems early.
Vaccines
If your kidney function is low, you may be at higher risk for infections. Ask your doctor about flu and pneumonia vaccines. Staying up to date on routine vaccines helps protect your overall health.
Screening programmes
Screening for kidney disease uses the same blood and urine tests used to check eGFR. If you have risk factors (like diabetes or high blood pressure), your doctor should check your kidney function at least once a year. There’s no routine screening for everyone — it’s targeted to those at higher risk.
Complications
If left untreated
- A low eGFR that gets worse slowly can lead to chronic kidney disease stages 4 or 5 (advanced kidney failure)
- You may develop high blood pressure or anaemia (low red blood cells)
- Buildup of waste products in your blood can cause nausea, itching, and confusion
- In severe cases, you may need dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive
Long-term outlook
For most people, a low eGFR is a wake‑up call to take better care of your health. With the right support and treatment, many people maintain a good quality of life for years. Even if your kidneys continue to decline, modern treatments like dialysis and transplantation give people many more years of life.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- Kidney Care UK ↗ · United Kingdom
- The National Kidney Federation (UK) ↗ · United Kingdom
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.