I am a72 year old woman. I have never had a creatinine or BUN elevation, and a egfr of <60. I had labs drawn the end of August, 2019( 5 mos. ago, after experiencing a severe case of hives, requiring 2 trips to the ER and 3 big doses of solumedrol IV. I had a also had a tick bite that did not appear to be problematic 4 days before the allergic event. 4 days after the last trip to the ER I developed fever and low back pain and went to a clinic where I had a urinalysis that’s was negative except for 2+ blood. They put me on Bactria DS and I got fine. I later went to my doctor and had a CMP in which my creatinine was 0.92 and BUN of 22, egfr of >60. That was the highest creatinine I’ve ever had. I went for my annual physical this week and creating was 1.02, BUN 22, but egfr was 53. How is that possible to drop that much in <5 mos. when my creatinine was only 0.1 higher? I did not have a urine test, and my doc is not the least concerned. I am panicked. Should I be?
Louisa in TN
Written by
redhed72
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Your eGFR is just one of MANY things to watch, and it will go down naturally with age. Since it is a calculated estimate, it isn't perfect, just a general idea. People who are under 18, overweight, pregnant, or very muscular will most likely have an eGFR that is WAY off from reality. What is most important is how your doing overall, how you feel, and if you are having any symptoms. You have a really good BUN and your creatinine levels are actually quiet good for someone who has enjoyed over 70 years here. No need to panic or worry - your doctors will most likely encourage you to continue eating well and doing the things you enjoy.
Thank you. That relieves my mind. I know I tend to over-react to medical issues. I am a retired nurse, and my mind goes to the worst possible scenario. I was upset that my doc took this so lightly. I do not have diabetes and have been on BP med for >20 years and is well controlled, so will try to “ chill out”.
As a nurse, you know that the you can have different lab results based on the amount of fluids and other factors on the day of the draw. I would request another lab drawn in a month or two but to include a full renal panel and a BMP. Good luck and let us know how it comes out. We are here for you. If the GFR continues to go down, then that's one thing and you will be then know that something is actually going on. It may go up.
When something like that happens with my labs, my nephrologist repeats them in 2 weeks. Since you are a nurse you know that your creatinine values are normal. The eGFR is but an estimate. Labs have to show a trend over time to be able to tell if it is anything to be concerned about or not. GFR and creatinine can be affected by hydration also. Make sure you are well hydrated before your next lab draw.
Your creatinine and BUN appear GREAT. Could it be you were a bit dehydrated? Even at your age your numbers look good and remember it is as Mr. Kidney writes just a "snapshot" and only a piece of a puzzle of your overall health. I wouldn't think there's need to panic but of course you and your doctor will undoubtedly stay on top of this. Blessings
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