what causes gfr numbers to drop within 6 months. I do not have diabetes and my bld pressure is under control with medications.

Hi Anon,

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the tiny filters in the kidneys, called glomeruli, each minute. The GFR test measures how well your kidneys are filtering a waste called creatinine, which is produced by the muscles. When the kidneys aren't working as well as they should, creatinine builds up in the blood.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, normal results range from 90 - 120 mL/min/1.73 m². Older people will have lower normal GFR levels, because GFR decreases with age.

Levels below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for 3 or more months are a sign of chronic kidney disease. A GFR result below 15 mL/min/1.73 m² is a sign of kidney failure and requires immediate medical attention.

A decrease in 6 months may not mean that you have kidney disease, since you may still be within normal range. However, it is important to take note because it means your kidneys are not excreting waste as well as they were 6 months ago and your doctor may require a follow-up.

Best wishes,

Rosa