What is a normal kidney function for a 70 year old?

For a 70-year-old, a "normal" kidney function (eGFR) is typically lower than for a younger adult, often around 75 mL/min/1.73m² or even below 90, representing a natural age-related decline, but it's normal if it stays above 60 without other signs of kidney damage like protein in the urine. While an eGFR above 90 is considered generally normal for younger adults, kidney function naturally decreases with age, so an eGFR between 60-89 in an older person isn't always disease, but needs monitoring, especially for protein.

Does famotidine cause high creatinine levels?

No significant changes in the clearances of creatinine or inulin, or the fractional clearance of creatinine were observed after famotidine administration.

Can prednisone lower creatinine levels?

Yes, prednisone can lower creatinine levels in certain kidney conditions (like HIV-associated nephropathy, lupus nephritis, or kidney inflammation) by reducing inflammation and improving kidney function, but paradoxically, it might increase the creatinine level temporarily due to muscle breakdown, even while improving actual kidney function (GFR). So, it often improves the underlying issue causing high creatinine, but lab results can be tricky. 

Can kidneys cause diarrhea?

Yes, kidney problems, including acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and even kidney infections, can cause diarrhea as a symptom, often due to toxin buildup, infection, inflammation, or treatment side effects, with severe diarrhea sometimes worsening kidney function. Diarrhea can also stem from issues common in kidney patients, like Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) or medication side effects, making it crucial to see a doctor for diagnosis.
 

Can kidney function go back to normal?

Kidney function can return to normal, but it depends on the type of injury: Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), from sudden issues like dehydration or infection, is often reversible with treatment, allowing function to recover; however, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), caused by long-term problems like diabetes or high blood pressure, involves permanent damage that usually can't be fully reversed, but its progression can often be slowed significantly with lifestyle changes and management.
 

What does a low eGFR mean in a typical blood test? - Online interview

What are two drugs not to be used in kidney disease?

Over-the-counter NSAIDS

They are not safe to use when you have kidney disease. Ibuprofen, such as Advil™ and Motrin™. Naproxen, such as Aleve™ and Naprosyn™. Aspirin for pain relief.

What medications can improve kidney function?

Medications that help kidney function primarily manage blood pressure (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics), control blood sugar (SGLT2 inhibitors, metformin), lower cholesterol (statins), or treat specific issues like anemia (erythropoietin) and high phosphorus (phosphate binders), all working to slow disease progression and protect the kidneys, especially for those with diabetes, says the National Kidney Foundation, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the American Kidney Fund. 

What organ does prednisone damage?

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia): Prednisone can cause blood sugar levels to rise, even if you do not have diabetes. High blood sugar levels over time can increase the risk of diabetes complications such as heart disease, kidney problems and nerve damage.

Can creatinine go back to normal?

If the kidneys are not functioning as they should, creatinine levels can increase in the blood. Several factors can cause high creatinine levels. These factors range from diet and medications to underlying health conditions. Levels should return to normal following treatment of the underlying issue.

What is the new warning on famotidine?

On Nov. 6, 2025, Fresenius Kabi initiated a voluntary nationwide recall of three lots of famotidine injection, USP, 20mg per 2mL (10mg per mL). The recall was prompted by out-of-specification endotoxin results in certain reserve samples, which can lead to severe systemic reactions such as sepsis and septic shock.

What can throw off a creatinine test?

Medicines: Certain medicines can increase creatinine levels. Meat consumption: Eating a large amount of meat can briefly increase creatinine levels for 6-12 hours. Water intake: Drinking a lot of water just before a blood test can temporarily lower creatinine levels.

What damages the kidneys the most?

The most damaging factors for kidneys are uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure, as they damage the blood vessels that filter waste, but other major culprits include smoking, obesity, dehydration, overuse of certain medications (NSAIDs), high-sodium/sugar diets, and certain autoimmune diseases like lupus. These conditions and habits reduce the kidneys' ability to filter blood, leading to kidney disease and potential failure over time, according to health sources like the American Kidney Fund and Mayo Clinic.
 

Can kidney function improve in the elderly?

Annual screening is recommended for everyone over age 60, especially those with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history. Key strategies for improving kidney function: control blood pressure and blood sugar, follow a healthy low-sodium/moderate-protein diet and avoid medications like NSAIDs.

What is the most accurate test for kidney function?

The most accurate kidney function assessment uses the eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) from a blood test, ideally calculated with both creatinine and cystatin C, plus a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) to check for protein leakage, giving a full picture of filtration and damage. While eGFR is standard, the combined creatinine-cystatin C method offers superior accuracy, especially in complex cases, by reducing creatinine's limitations (muscle mass impact). 

What does prednisone do to your eyes?

Prednisone can increase ocular (eye) pressure, leading to blurred vision, vision loss or even blindness without prompt treatment.

What medications are hardest on your kidneys?

The worst drugs for kidneys often include common pain relievers like NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for long-term use, certain antibiotics, some heart/blood pressure meds (ACE inhibitors/ARBs, especially with NSAIDs), Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) for acid reflux, and illicit substances like cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, as well as high-dose or misused prescription meds, all of which can reduce blood flow, cause inflammation, or directly damage kidney tissue.
 

Why are cortisone shots bad for you?

Cortisone shots aren't inherently "bad," but frequent use or injections in certain areas (like tendons) can weaken tissues, leading to cartilage damage, tendon rupture, bone thinning (osteoporosis), and delayed healing, while systemic effects include higher blood sugar, facial flushing, insomnia, and potential bone/joint infection risk. Doctors limit injections due to these risks, especially with long-term or excessive use.
 

How can I make my kidneys stronger again?

To strengthen your kidneys, focus on staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and using NSAIDs cautiously. These lifestyle changes help your kidneys efficiently filter waste, maintain blood pressure, and control blood sugar, preventing long-term damage.
 

What blood pressure meds should I avoid with kidney disease?

With kidney disease (CKD), you need to be cautious with blood pressure meds like ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril) and ARBs (e.g., losartan), as they can raise potassium and, in some cases, worsen kidney function, but are also often protective. Diuretics (water pills) can cause dehydration, while NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), even OTC ones, should be avoided long-term as they are hard on kidneys. Always discuss your specific meds with your doctor, especially if you have CKD, as benefits often outweigh risks under supervision. 

Can you have a low GFR and not have kidney disease?

Yes, you can have a low eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) without having chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially if it's a mild, temporary dip or due to factors like aging, dehydration, or certain medications, but a consistently low eGFR (below 60 for over three months) with other signs of damage (like protein in urine) usually indicates kidney disease. A mildly low result (60-89) without damage might just need monitoring, while lower numbers or signs of damage warrant investigation for true kidney dysfunction. 

Which drug is toxic to the kidneys?

Renal toxic drugs are medications that can harm the kidneys, with common culprits including NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), certain antibiotics (aminoglycosides, vancomycin), ACE inhibitors, lithium, PPIs, contrast dyes, and some chemotherapy drugs, causing issues like inflammation, tubular damage, or reduced blood flow, potentially leading to acute or chronic kidney injury. 

How tired do you feel with kidney disease?

Extreme, on-going tiredness, together with a lack of energy, is often called fatigue. There are lots of reasons why you may experience fatigue with CKD. If your kidneys are not working well, toxins (waste products) build up in your blood and this can make you feel tired and weak.

Which painkiller is easiest on the kidneys?

In general, acetaminophen is safe for your kidneys at recommended doses. But check with your healthcare professional first to determine the cause of your pain and the best way to treat it.