Does increased GFR result in chronic kidney disease?

Question

Hi doctor, I am 53 years old with a weight of 80 kilograms and a height of five feet seven inches. I have been athletic most of the time. But still, I gained some weight over the past few years. In these few years, I have done some general tests. Initially, my GFR was 73 at the age of 45. At the age of 51, it was 63 and now it is around 56. I am hypertensive. I have a cholesterol level of 168 mg/dL, LDL of 101 mg/dL, and HDL of 37 mg/dL. Even by doing exercise, I am unable to raise my HDL by more than 41 mg/dL. I am planning to do some tests after few days. I exercise normally. I have musculoskeletal issues in my knees and neck. Due to my job and sports activities, I got some wear on my skeletal system. I got kidney stones three to four years back. My urologist advised me to take more water and lower my salt intake. I am doing it. But I do not drink enough water and I drink three to four cups of coffee every day. I am concerned about my GFR. It seems like I have chronic kidney disease. I am planning to consult a doctor to know the causes of my high blood pressure. I am planning to lose around 10 to 15 lbs. Can I have a risk of developing kidney failure in the future? Can I have chronic kidney disease due to insufficient drinking of water with too much intake of coffee? What is the potential lifespan of a person having chronic kidney disease?

Answer 1

Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. The presence of chronic kidney disease cannot be predicted only by the values of GFR (glomerular filtration rate). It also depends on the presence and absence of protein in the urine. It is good to do a urine routine and microscopy test to know whether there is a presence of protein in the urine. It helps to make a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease. GFR is concerned when there is a loss of ten percent of nephrons every day. A gradual decrease in GFR is concerned. I advise you do urea and creatinine tests along with urine analysis. It helps to determine whether you have kidney disease or not. I advise you eat healthy foods and exercise regularly. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) can increase on its own. Do not be worried. You can try to reduce your weight by five kilograms as your ideal weight should be around 75 kilograms.