My GFR dropped from 27 to 21 recently. There are many aspects to maintaining healthy kidneys. Low salt, no NSAIDS, exercise, good diet, etc. I now know infection is a kidney killer and is not talked about enough. I had COVID, Norovirus, and a raging UTI that came dangerously close to full on sepsis. This was 2 weeks ago. I did not even know I had a UTI. A ambulance ride to the ED showed the infection was quickly turning to sepsis. It can happen in 12-24 hours. That’s how fast kidney function declines unless you address infection. My Nephrologist at Mayo said sepsis is the thing that scares her the most for her kidney patients. I’m saying be aware of the signs. Antibiotics cleared up the infection, but my kidneys suffered and we’re waiting to see if they recover. If not, I’m going on the list.
Kidney function often declines over time. The huge drops are what Nephrologists are looking for. If you can remain somewhat stable meaning up or down a few GFR notches. Potassium levels, proteinuria, calcium levels…there are many markers that ebb and flow. Nephrologists often don’t explain the complicated dance with many aspects to kidney function. Ask questions! Get to know more than GFR numbers. And understand what painkillers and antibiotics you can tolerate. You are your best medical advocate.