Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) Test

A good eGFR depends on age. Generally, ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m² is normal; 60–89 is mildly reduced and can be age‑related in older adults; an eGFR below 60 suggests chronic kidney disease if persistent for three months. In people over 65, values 45–59 can be acceptable if there’s no protein in the urine or other evidence of kidney damage. Discuss results with your clinician.

Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is measured in mL/min/1.73 m². Kidney failure (end‑stage kidney disease) is generally defined as eGFR below 15 mL/min/1.73 m² (CKD stage 5). An eGFR of 15–29 indicates severe dysfunction (stage 4). Treatment decisions (dialysis, transplant) also depend on symptoms, trends, urine output and other lab findings, not eGFR alone.

A low eGFR means reduced kidney function. Mild declines—especially with aging—may not be urgent, but repeat testing and assessment of trends, urine albumin, blood pressure, blood sugar and medicines is important. Worry if eGFR is <60 mL/min/1.73 m², falls rapidly, or you have symptoms (swelling, breathlessness, fatigue, low urine) or abnormal bloods—seek prompt medical review.

A doctor orders an eGFR to assess kidney function and screen for chronic kidney disease, monitor disease progression or recovery after injury, and guide medication dosing and contrast-imaging decisions. It helps evaluate the impact of diabetes or hypertension, check suitability for procedures or transplant follow‑up, and detect early declines in filtration so interventions can prevent further kidney damage.

Foods that can acutely raise GFR include high-protein meals (red meat, dairy, legumes), high-sodium/processed foods that expand blood volume, and caffeinated beverages (coffee, tea, energy drinks). These effects are often transient; persistent hyperfiltration from chronic high-protein or high-salt intake may harm kidneys. If you have kidney disease or concerns, consult a healthcare professional before changing your diet.

Poor kidney function may cause reduced urine output or dark, foamy urine, blood in urine, swelling in legs/ankles/face, persistent fatigue, poor appetite, nausea or vomiting, metallic taste or bad breath, itchy/dry skin, muscle cramps, shortness of breath, rising blood pressure, and trouble concentrating or confusion. Symptoms can be subtle early on and worsen as kidney damage progresses.