Final answer:
A lower than normal Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) indicates that creatinine and other harmful substances might be accumulating in the blood. This is a sign of potential kidney failure and can lead to several health issues related to fluid, electrolyte, and waste product balance. Early detection and treatment are important to manage the condition and prevent further complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
A lower than normal Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) can be an indication that creatinine and other unwanted substances are accumulating in the blood. This accumulation can lead to a variety of health issues including abnormal fluid levels, deranged acid levels, and electrolyte imbalances such as abnormal levels of potassium, calcium and phosphate. It is also associated with hematuria, and anemia over the long term. Kidney function can decline rapidly in acute conditions or gradually in chronic conditions, with both scenarios leading to a build-up of toxic waste substances in the blood.
Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Individuals with a GFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 for 3 months are classified as having CKD, as this level of reduction in kidney function could be associated with multiple complications. Conditions that may interfere with kidney function include medication effects, benign prostatic hypertrophy, prostate cancer, kidney stones, abdominal malignancy, or an obstructed urinary catheter.
Common Symptoms of Kidney Issues
Kidney failure is characterized by the kidneys' inability to filter waste from the blood adequately, leading to a build-up of wastes in the body. Various renal conditions can present symptoms such as proteinuria (protein in the urine), oliguria (low urine production), polyuria (high urine production), dysuria (painful urination), hematuria (blood in the urine), and glycosuria (glucose in urine).