My GFR levels have fallen below normal, they are 26, I will be seeing a specialist in one week and want to know what to expect, what will they do for my kidneys.
The doctor should find out why the gfr is so low before anything else. Since there could be many causes for this some test should be performed. Also the doctor will ensure that you are not in kidney failure.
The nephrologist will get your medical history and perform a physical exam. If your doctor has not ordered it; the nephrologist will get labs and imaging of the kidney.
GFR Levels between 15 - 29 generally indicate severe kidney damage. At this point the doctor will decide on a plan of treatment. The doctor may recommend an ultrasound to check for cysts, stones, tumors and other irregularities. A biopsy may be recommended as well. Be sure to ask lots of questions regarding how to improve your condition.
The Nephrologist will run a gamut of tests look at creatinine and the clearance rate for the creatinine. This, together with your gfr, will give a picture as to if your kidney function is impaired and to what degree. You may simply need to change your diet.
