Labs · 4-minute readeGFR and urine ACR: why two kidney numbers matter
People often focus on creatinine or eGFR alone. But clinicians commonly use both a blood-based estimate of filtering—eGFR—and a urine albumin test such as ACR/UACR. Albumin in urine can be a sign of kidney damage even when filtering still looks relatively preserved.
What to ask
- What are my eGFR and urine ACR results?
- Are these results persistent, and should either test be repeated?
- What trend do you see over time?
Tip bit: One result is a snapshot. Ask your clinician what the pattern means in your medical context.
Source: NIDDK kidney tests and diagnosis →
Food · 5-minute readThere is no single “kidney diet”
Kidney nutrition changes with the stage and cause of kidney disease, lab results, medications, appetite and whether someone receives dialysis. Automatically avoiding every food containing potassium or phosphorus can make eating unnecessarily restrictive—and may reduce nutrition.
A safer starting point
- Ask whether you personally need limits for sodium, potassium, phosphorus, protein or fluid.
- Check packaged-food labels for sodium and phosphorus additives.
- Request a renal-dietitian referral for individualized advice.
Tip bit: “Kidney friendly” should mean appropriate for your current labs and treatment—not a universal forbidden-food list.
Source: NIDDK healthy eating with CKD →
Medication safety · 4-minute readThe medicine-bag check
Prescription lists can miss pain relievers, cold products, vitamins, traditional remedies and supplements. Bringing everything—or clear photos of the labels—helps your pharmacist and clinician check doses, duplications and kidney-related risks.
Pay special attention to
- Over-the-counter NSAID pain medicines.
- Combination cold and flu products.
- Herbal products and supplements marketed as “detox” or “kidney cleanse.”
- Any medication changes after dehydration, vomiting or diarrhea.
Tip bit: Do not stop prescribed medicines on your own. Ask a pharmacist or prescriber what is safe for your kidney function.
Source: NIDDK smart choices about medicines →
Appointments · 3-minute readThree questions to bring to your next kidney visit
- What has changed since my last visit? Ask about trends, not only today’s values.
- What should I do before the next visit? Clarify tests, monitoring and medication instructions.
- What symptoms should make me call sooner? Get advice specific to your condition and treatment.
Tip bit: Put your most important question first. Appointments move quickly, and this makes sure the priority is addressed.
Use the free appointment checklist →
Important: Kidney Tip Bits provides general education only. It cannot diagnose a condition, interpret your personal results or tell you to start, stop or change treatment. Use emergency services for urgent or severe symptoms.
