Low eGFR?

[Deniseelk]

My father who had a quadruple heart bypass 7 years ago, low blood pressure and on a range of medication for heart disease had his usual bloods checked ( mainly in relation to kidney function and any effects from medication). I spotted his eGFR was low at 78 ( range 90 -120). I want him to speak to his GP but thought I would reach out for any tips first. Symptoms are: weak muscle tone, tiredness, he has blacked out once when reaching both arms above head, generally feeling much “ older” ( he’s 80). Any comments?

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

I have had Type I diabetes for well over 50 years and have this test done regularly to monitor kidney function. EGFR drops with age and his is slightly better than average for his age. Also this test needs to be looked at with albumen levels (protein in urine) which are an indicator of kidney damage. That level of eGFR would in itself be symptomless. I would suggest he books a check up and medication review with his GP if these have not been done in a while. Medication often needs adjusting as people age (particularly over 70). Would he allow you to go with him to the appointment?

[Lezzers]

Hi Deniseelk, my husbands eGFR has fluctuated between 57 & 60 for the last year or so. His serum creatinine level is above normal range and just before Christmas we were told that he had mild kidney disease probably caused by his meds for his heart failure. However, his heart is more important so unless his kidneys worsen they’re not going to change his meds. As Michael has said the eGFR reading needs to be looked at with other indicators. Age does also play a part , my husband is 64yo so 75 at age 80 doesn’t seem too bad. I would speak to his GP about it but certainly ensure the GP is aware of the other issues especially his passing out, is his blood pressure too low?

[Hidden]

I'd agree with what has been said, but I'm surprised that the value has been given. I was told that any value above 60 is considered normal, but the exact value above this is very hard to measure accurately, so generally ignored.

Mine has been in the high 50s for a decade or so and is no cause for alarm.

It can fall much lower before becoming a worry.

Your GP is the best person to ask about his symptoms.

[Manhattan1]

i’m 65.. ckd stage 3 with gfr of 41..i would think your dad’s reading is actually really good

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to Manhattan1]

It is as it is better than average for his age.

[Dollybears]

Hello i was diagnosed with stage 3 ckd about 3 years ago at the age of 58 had to have 3 blood test over a 3 month period all were under 60 which is when u r diagnosed with the condition im not a doctor but believe over 60 is not a problem at the last count mine was 48 having gone back up from 45 but am now under investigation for heart problems and been put on bisoprolol asprin statins ect was not feeling well at all chest pain dizzyness ect but now feeling better since been on medication have ct angiogram 16th Jan hopefully the problem will show up worse fear is nothing shows up as i need to know what's making me have these issues did ask my doctor if the 2 were connected she said she didn't think so but my kidney function as jumped up 3 since going on heart medication and i believe heart and kidney problems can go hand in hand but like i say not a doctor hope your dad feels better soon.

[Deniseelk in reply to Dollybears]

Sorry to hear you have had such a rough time but I am glad to hear you are being monitored and I hope you see improvements very soon. It always surprises me that GP’s don’t seem to automatically check vitamin levels at the same time as low B12 or low Vit D can cause these symptoms too. Wishing you the best!