What does it mean if the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is low, and what should I do?

Generally, a low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) usually indicates a certain degree of decline in kidney function. This may be caused by factors such as aging, long-term excessive fatigue, chronic glomerulonephritis, diabetic nephropathy, or hypertensive nephropathy, and should be managed according to the specific situation.

1. Aging: With increasing age, kidney function may gradually decline, which is a natural physiological process. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and moderate exercise to delay further deterioration of kidney function.

2. Long-term excessive fatigue: Prolonged overexertion places the body in a state of stress, leading to sympathetic nervous system activation, renal vasoconstriction, reduced renal blood perfusion, and impaired glomerular filtration function. It is recommended to ensure adequate rest, manage work and life reasonably, and avoid prolonged continuous work and staying up late.

3. Chronic glomerulonephritis: Inflammatory responses damage the glomerular basement membrane, increase the permeability of glomerular capillaries, cause massive leakage of proteins and red blood cells, and impair glomerular filtration function, leading to a reduced eGFR. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as prednisone acetate and compound cyclophosphamide tablets to suppress immune-inflammatory responses, reduce proteinuria, and protect kidney function.

4. Diabetic nephropathy: As diabetes progresses, glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis develop, severely impairing the kidney's filtration and reabsorption functions, ultimately leading to a decline in glomerular filtration rate. Patients should follow a low-sugar diet and take antidiabetic medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets and acarbose tablets as prescribed.

5. Hypertensive nephropathy: Hypertension can also activate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, further aggravating kidney damage and gradually reducing the glomerular filtration rate. Patients should use antihypertensive medications such as irbesartan tablets and nifedipine tablets under medical supervision to control the condition.

If the estimated glomerular filtration rate is low, prompt medical consultation is advised to identify the underlying cause and undergo standardized treatment and management under medical guidance in order to preserve kidney function and slow disease progression.