Understanding Your Kidney Function Results
Your test results show Stage 3a chronic kidney disease (CKD), which means your kidneys are working at approximately 60% of normal capacity—this requires attention but is manageable with proper care and monitoring. 1
What These Numbers Mean
Your serum creatinine of 1.14 mg/dL and eGFR of 57 mL/min/1.73 m² indicate mild-to-moderate reduction in kidney function. 1 An eGFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² defines Stage 3 CKD, which affects kidney filtration and increases cardiovascular risk. 1
Important context: These values should be confirmed with repeat testing in 3-6 months, as a single abnormal result doesn't necessarily mean chronic disease—it could reflect temporary changes. 1
Why This Matters for Your Health
- Cardiovascular risk: Reduced kidney function significantly increases your risk of heart disease and stroke, even at this early stage. 1
- Disease progression: Without proper management, kidney function can continue to decline over time. 1
- Medication safety: Many common medications need dose adjustments or should be avoided with reduced kidney function. 2
Essential Next Steps
Additional Testing Needed
You must have a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) test done. 1 This measures protein leakage in your urine, which:
- Helps determine the cause and severity of kidney disease 1
- Predicts cardiovascular events 1
- Guides treatment decisions 1
Repeat your creatinine and eGFR in 3 months to confirm chronicity and establish your baseline kidney function trajectory. 1
Blood Pressure Control
Maintain blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg (or as directed by your doctor). 1 Optimal blood pressure control is critical to slow kidney disease progression and reduce cardiovascular risk. 1
Dietary Modifications
Limit protein intake to approximately 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight daily (roughly 56 grams for a 70 kg/154 lb person). 1 This is the recommended daily allowance and helps reduce kidney workload without causing malnutrition. 1
Medication Review
Schedule a comprehensive medication review with your doctor immediately. 2 Many medications require dose adjustments at your level of kidney function, including:
- Pain relievers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen should generally be avoided) 2
- Certain antibiotics 2
- Diabetes medications 2
- Blood pressure medications (may need monitoring of potassium and creatinine) 1, 2
Monitoring Schedule
- Every 3-6 months: Check serum creatinine, eGFR, and UACR 1
- Regularly: Monitor blood pressure at home if possible 1
- As directed: Potassium levels if taking certain blood pressure medications 1, 2
When to Seek Immediate Evaluation
Contact your doctor promptly if you develop:
- Significant swelling in legs, ankles, or face 2
- Decreased urine output 2
- Unexplained fatigue or weakness 1
- Difficulty breathing 2
- Rapid changes in weight 1
Potential Treatments Based on Underlying Cause
If you have diabetes: ACE inhibitors or ARBs (blood pressure medications) are strongly recommended when eGFR is below 60, as they protect kidney function. 1 SGLT2 inhibitors may also reduce cardiovascular risk and slow kidney disease progression. 1
If you have high blood pressure without diabetes: ACE inhibitors or ARBs are recommended if you also have protein in your urine. 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Don't ignore "borderline" results: Even mild kidney function reduction increases health risks and requires action. 1
- Don't assume creatinine alone tells the whole story: The eGFR calculation accounts for age, sex, and race to give a more accurate picture. 1
- Don't start potassium supplements or salt substitutes without medical guidance: These can be dangerous with reduced kidney function. 1, 2
- Don't delay follow-up: Early intervention prevents progression to more severe stages requiring dialysis. 1
Prognosis with Proper Management
Stage 3a CKD is manageable and does not inevitably progress to kidney failure. 1 With appropriate blood pressure control, dietary modifications, medication management, and treatment of underlying causes, many patients maintain stable kidney function for years. 1 The key is consistent monitoring and adherence to recommended interventions. 1