Answer:

The eGFR assesses kidney function and helps diagnose the stages of kidney failure. In healthy adults, the eGFR is typically above 90 mL/min/1.73 m², but it naturally declines with age.

A consistent eGFR decrease over 3 months, falling below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² as in your mother's case, signals reduced kidney function. This requires prompt monitoring and treatment. With an eGFR of 48 mL/min/1.73 m², your mother is in stage 3a of chronic kidney disease, indicating significantly reduced kidney function. This stage may be accompanied by risks such as high blood pressure, diabetes, anemia, osteoporosis, calcium-phosphorus imbalance, high potassium levels, toxin buildup, and cardiovascular complications.

Doctor Ho Tan Thong advises a patient. Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Ho Tan Thong advises a patient. Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

While kidney function cannot fully recover at this stage, following a medical treatment plan can slow the progression of kidney disease, prevent further decline, and mitigate serious complications, especially if there's a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease.

In addition to following the doctor's prescribed treatment, your mother should maintain a healthy diet: limit salt intake (under 5 g per day), restrict protein as advised by the doctor, avoid potassium- and phosphorus-rich foods if experiencing electrolyte imbalances, and refrain from fried or fatty foods, alcohol, tobacco, and stimulants.

It's crucial to take medications as prescribed, without self-medicating with over-the-counter pain relievers or using unregulated medications that could harm the kidneys. Regular check-ups, eGFR and creatinine tests every 3-6 months, and blood, urine, and kidney ultrasound tests are also essential.

Doctor Ho Tan Thong

Nephrology - Dialysis Department

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM