UK kidney health guide

20 Questions to Ask Your GP About Kidney Function

A kidney appointment can feel overwhelming, particularly when you receive unfamiliar numbers such as eGFR, creatinine or ACR. Preparing questions in advance can help you make better use of the appointment.

Questions about your results

1. 1. What is my latest eGFR?
2. 2. How has it changed from previous tests?
3. 3. What is my urine ACR?
4. 4. Is the ACR result persistent?
5. 5. What does my creatinine result mean in context?

Questions about the cause

1. 6. What is the likely cause of my kidney problem?
2. 7. Do I need additional tests?
3. 8. Could any of my medicines affect kidney function?
4. 9. Should I be referred to a nephrologist?

Questions about monitoring

1. 10. How often should I have blood tests?
2. 11. How often should my urine be checked?
3. 12. What blood-pressure target applies to me?
4. 13. Which symptoms should prompt an urgent call?

Questions about lifestyle

1. 14. Do I need dietary changes?
2. 15. Should I see a renal dietitian?
3. 16. Are there restrictions on potassium, phosphate, protein or fluids?
4. 17. What level of exercise is appropriate?

Questions about complementary products

1. 18. Are any herbal products unsafe with my medicines?
2. 19. Should I tell my pharmacist about supplements?
3. 20. When should I contact the kidney team before starting something new?

These questions are educational prompts, not a substitute for medical advice. Nisarg Ayurveda can help you organise questions about complementary wellness, while your GP or renal team remains the appropriate source for diagnosis and medical treatment.