MyKidneyDiseaseTeam

Great question! The eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) is a measure of how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. It's not something you calculate yourself — a doctor orders a blood test to measure it.

Here's what goes into the calculation:

- Creatinine level — a waste product measured in your blood
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Great question! The eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) is a measure of how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. It's not something you calculate yourself — a doctor orders a blood test to measure it.

Here's what goes into the calculation:

- Creatinine level — a waste product measured in your blood
- Age
- Biological sex
- Sometimes muscle mass is also considered

The higher your creatinine in the blood, the lower your eGFR will be, which signals more kidney damage.

Here's a quick guide to what the numbers mean:

- 90 or above — Normal kidney function (Stage 1)
- 60–89 — Mild damage (Stage 2)
- 45–59 — Mild to moderate damage (Stage 3a)
- 30–44 — Moderate damage (Stage 3b)
- 15–29 — Severe damage (Stage 4)
- Below 15 — Kidney failure (Stage 5)

Catching changes in your eGFR early is really important, as it helps guide treatment decisions and lifestyle changes to slow progression.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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