Gfr stage 3 advice Please

Firstly, Pam, just to put your mind at rest about the eGFR test.  When this test was first introduced it was to try and determine whether kidney disease was an ageing process or a disease process, and my friend's GP after telling her that although her eGFR was a little reduced at 58, said that the Governement had "opened a can of worms" with this test as it saw lots of elderly patients rushing off to kidney consultants unnecessarily.  Importantly, other tests should have been carried out to assess your creatinine, urea, potassium and protein levels.  

Various medications can cause a reduction in kidney function, including those for high blood pressure and NSAIDs including Ibuprofen - I took the latter for 7 months - just a small daily dose - when suffering from an undiagnosed inflammatory illness, and was later diagnosed with CKD3.  Without a doubt that was either due to the long-term untreated, therefore undiagnosed inflammation, and/or the Ibuprofen.  Perhaps I was more at risk because I have only one kidney having had the right one removed very successfully 60 years ago.

If your liver function is raised, then hopefully the GP has given you advice and will be repeating that blood test to see if there is any improvemet.  Meanwhile, avoid alcohol and drink plenty of water.

Also, the GP should be carrying out repeat tests every few months to check whether there is any further deterioration in your kidney function or whether it is stable at 55.

If you feel concerned and, as you say, that your GP seemed to "fob" you off, then ask to be referred to a renal consultant - hopefully then you will get some answers, or at least get your mind put at rest.  Good luck.

 

3 years ago my gfr fell to 29. At the time I was taking Diclofenac. Once I stopped these my gfr rose to 48. The doctor at the hospital said he doesn't need to see me unless my function dropped below 40 so I wouldn't worry to much about gfr 55. Have your kidney function tested every 6 months to see if it worsens. The only real advice I can give you is not to use anything containing anti inflammatory this includes creams as well as tablets. If n doubt check with your chemist.

Hello Pam,

My renal consultant told me to drink plenty of fluids.  Over the counter pain relief are the worse things for kidneys. I can only take paractemol only.  I hope you will feel better soon, also I find a long soak in the bath also helps. 

Hi,

I would stick with paracetamol for the pain, deffo no ibuprofen.  This is bad for kidneys like Mrs O has said.  At stage 3 if you have pain and feel unwell you may have an ifection.  I would go to your GP and get a test, also have your bloods done like has been suggested.  Try not to worry you will need lots more tests but do keep on until you get to the bottom of it and don't be fobbed off.  My transplant was urgent now because I am doing ok I don't matter anymore and have been told I haven't got cancer so I'm ok.  The NHS just doesn't have the money to give proper care so will sadly fob you off you will need to fight unfortunately.  Good Luck

Hi Pam

I am no expert but you do need to stay away from Ibuprofen.

Could you take paracetemol instead if you need to for pain?, as it is relatively safe to take as instructed.

Your blood tests show a low gfr then you must get the relevant help that seems to be lacking with your gp.

You should not be fobbed off and confused by some inadequate doctor.

Google specialist kidney sites/charites online to get good advise. Beware any that are chinese based!!

There are drugs specific to helping people in your position also diet as well which is very important. Be so careful of too much salt.

Google calcium carbonate or bicarbonate of soda not sure at this precise moment, maybe they are are the same, in relation to kidney disease as I have read it is has very beneficial properties in helping the kidneys.

Hope I have helped a little.

All the very best.

 

Thank you all for the advice its very much appreciated xx