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

Generally, an elevated estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) refers to the volume of fluid filtered through the glomeruli per unit time exceeding the normal range. This may be caused by intense physical exercise, pregnancy, glomerulonephritis, pyelonephritis, chronic renal failure, or other reasons. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Intense physical exercise: During intense physical activity, due to increased physical exertion, the blood flow to the kidneys also increases accordingly, which may cause a transient increase in glomerular filtration rate. This elevation is usually physiological and does not cause long-term effects on the body. The glomerular filtration rate typically returns to normal levels after appropriate rest following intense exercise, so no specific treatment is required.

2. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, as the fetus grows and develops, the kidney workload in pregnant women gradually increases, leading to a corresponding rise in glomerular filtration rate. This is a normal physiological phenomenon during pregnancy that helps meet the demands of both the fetus and the mother for nutrients and metabolic waste products. After pregnancy, the glomerular filtration rate usually gradually returns to normal.

3. Glomerulonephritis: Glomerulonephritis is a kidney disease that may increase the permeability of the glomerular filtration membrane, thereby increasing the glomerular filtration rate. However, it should be noted that glomerulonephritis is usually accompanied by other signs of kidney dysfunction, such as proteinuria and hematuria. Patients may take medications such as enalapril maleate tablets, benazepril hydrochloride tablets, or compound captopril tablets under a doctor's guidance to improve their condition.

4. Pyelonephritis: Pyelonephritis is an inflammation of the kidneys and renal pelvis, usually caused by bacterial infection. Under inflammatory stimulation, it may lead to an increased glomerular filtration rate, accompanied by symptoms such as fever, flank pain, frequent urination, and urgency. Patients may take medications such as ampicillin-probenecid capsules, Fushen Ning tablets, or compound lithospermum capsules according to medical advice.

5. Chronic renal failure: In the early stages of chronic renal failure, due to compensatory action of the kidneys, the glomerular filtration rate may temporarily increase. However, as the disease progresses, the glomerular filtration rate usually gradually declines. At this stage, patients may receive treatment with medications such as furosemide injection, bumetanide tablets, or uremic clearance granules under the guidance of a physician.

When an increased glomerular filtration rate is detected, prompt medical consultation for further examination and treatment is necessary to identify the underlying cause and implement appropriate therapeutic measures.