Looking for advice

[EDom]

Im a 42 yr old female and my GFR levels are testing low im really worried dr didnt give me much to go on. My levels 2yrs ago were 106, last year 80 and last week 55. Been extremely fatigued and somewhat dazed and confused. I dont have diabetes or high blood pressure so not really sure why this is happening. I go to the kidney specialist next week but im driving myself crazy trying to figure this out.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

Hi EDom,

Don't drive yourself crazy. Going to the specialist is the best thing for you. There can be many factors that can cause the GFR to decline. A GFR can change from one lab to another based on how hydrated you are and other factors. The specialist will probably due more labs and see what the trend is. Then they will review your medical history to see what else might have caused the decline.

The good news is, with education, diet and a healthy lifestyle, you can take control and possibly hinder any further decline.

You might prepare for your visit by bringing a list of questions. Make sure your doctor can see all the prescriptions you take and then include anything you take on your own. For example; do you take ibuprofen and if so how often? (very important) Do you take supplements or vitamins? List them too. Even include herbal teas if you consume them. Also, it might be helpful to bring a journal of your symptoms, so you do not forget. Do you have to go to the bathroom at night? Is there any pain you feel. Take a look at the foods you eat. See how often you are eating or drinking specific things. Do you eat a lot of red meat, for example? How much water,coffee and tea do you consume daily? (Coffee and tea dehydrate even though they are liquid)

Its hard for us to say anything more at this point. Let us know how it goes and we are here for you.

Best.

[EDom in reply to Bassetmommer]

Thank you so much that is very helpful

[Barbee44]

I think there are many Primary Care Physicians in the dark about kidney disease. I asked to see a specialist and was told it wasn't necessary YET. My eGFR is 50. So how low should it go before seeing a specialist? I called my insurance company and they were shocked at what my doctor told me. They are giving me a list of nephrologists to pick from. They think I should see one. My doctor failed to even tell me I had stage 3 kidney disease... I happened to see it on the print out after my visit.

[EDom in reply to Barbee44]

I agree with u about Dr's being in the dark about kidney disease. I just feel that if r levels r dropping it should raise some concerns for them n a good dr should never let their patients leave their office confused or not knowing a diagnosis Well i hope u find a good kidney dr n all goes well for u im going for my first appointment this monday happy n scared at the same time

[Barbee44 in reply to EDom]

Not only that, but she knew I was scheduled for a spinal MRI with contrast, and the dye could severely damage the kidneys. She never said a word. I found it out by Googling. She never mentioned diet or anything.