The full form of GFR is Glomerular Filtration Rate. It is a measure used to check how well the kidneys are working. It explicitly calculates how much blood flows per minute through the glomeruli. The small filters in the kidneys that remove waste from the blood are glomeruli.
Glomerular filtration rate is typically calculated using a mathematical formula where an individual's age and gender are correlated with serum creatinine levels. The lower the amount of GFR, the greater the danger to the kidneys. It informs the doctor about the stage of kidney damage and allows him to prepare the treatment as needed.
Method of conducting the test
A step-by-step explanation of how to perform the test is provided below.
- A blood sample is required.
- A blood sample is then sent to a laboratory. The creatinine level is tested in a blood sample in a laboratory.
- Creatinine is a chemical waste product derived from creatine. Creatine is a chemical that the body produces especially for muscles that provide energy.
- To measure GFR, a laboratory specialist mixes the amount of creatinine in the blood with many other variables.
- Different formulas were used for children and adults. The methodology mainly includes the following.
- Blood creatinine measurement
- Gender
- Weight
- Height
- Age
- Ethnicity
Why do I need a GFR test?
Early stage kidney disease usually causes no symptoms. But you need a GFR test if you have a higher risk of kidney disease. Risk factors include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Family history of kidney failure
Later stage kidney disease causes some symptoms. You may need a GFR test if you have any one of the following symptoms:
- Urinating more or less often than usual
- Itch
- Fatigue
- Swelling of the arms, legs or feet
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite