Someone told me that eating a meat meal the night before GFR testing, as I did, could have caused my lower GFR score of 53. Could that be true? What is your impression of all this?
you say the drop in your GFR happened over a 3 month period. A single GFR test is not very helpful. Have you had repeat tests done since? It needs to be determined what the overall GFR trend is. Blood levels of creatinine are used in a formula to calculate the estimated kidney function. It is not a precise test. Other values need to be considered as well in estimating the overall kidney function.
Creatinine is a waste product created by breaking down the dietary protein we eat. Increased muscle tissue from vigorous exercising,damaged or injured muscles and certain prescription drugs may also elevate creatinine level. If you ate large amounts of protein (meat) up to two days before your test, it may have been reflected in your creatinine levels, and, therefore, the GFR.
There are certain factors and conditions that will cause a significant drop in a GFR over a relatively short period of time, acute or serious infections, dehydration when a person is quite ill, and other health issues. If repeat
tests show lowered GFR, thorough investigation should be performed and, based on the results, a nephrologist may need to be consulted. I am rather surprised that your doctor has not followed up on this.
Extreme salt sensitivity is an issue for me. I can see and feel the physical consequences of eating something salty within minutes of consuming the offending item. It is always a good idea to avoid salty foods, whenever possible. This helps us maintain a better blood pressure control as well.
Good luck and try not to worry too much. Discus your lab results and concerns with your doctor and remember to ask for another blood test.