Is It Possible to Get Off Dialysis with 8 GFR?

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The answer to whether it's possible to get off dialysis with a GFR of 8 depends on the underlying cause of kidney failure. Let's explore the various scenarios and factors that influence this outcome.

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The Basis of Kidney Function

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The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a measurement of kidney function, indicating how much blood the kidneys filter per minute. A GFR of 8 is significantly low, typically requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant for survival.

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Acute vs. Chronic Kidney Failure

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When kidneys fail due to an acute, sudden onset cause like severe dehydration, a medical reaction, or cholesterol emboli due to heart surgery, recovery is often possible within the first year of treatment. However, if the failure is due to a chronic, long-term cause such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a genetic disorder, the kidneys cannot recover.

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There is also a condition known as acute on chronic failure, where someone who has an underlying problem like diabetes experiences acute kidney failure. While the acute component might be reversible, the chronic underlying issue can lead to a permanent decrease in kidney function.

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Case Studies and Outcomes

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The available evidence strongly suggests that it is very unlikely for someone with a GFR of 8 to get off dialysis on their own. Without transplant, recovery is rare, especially in cases where the kidneys have been damaged over a prolonged period.

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When someone's kidneys have failed due to chronic conditions, the organ becomes scarred and the functional parts are damaged. Medications and treatments aimed at managing the underlying disease (e.g., diabetes and hypertension) may prevent further damage but cannot reverse the existing scarring.

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Role of Personal Factors

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Several personal factors can influence the outcome. A person's size, muscle mass, and overall health status can play a significant role. For example, a large, muscular individual with a GFR of 8 may find it difficult to get off dialysis, whereas a small, less muscular individual might have a better chance.

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Factors such as age, the presence of other medical conditions, and the specific cause of kidney failure also come into play. For instance, if the failure is due to a toxic medication or autoimmune disease, addressing the underlying cause might allow recovery over weeks to months.

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Seek Professional Advice

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This is a serious matter and you should seek advice from your nephrologist rather than relying on information from forums like Quora. Nephrologists are specialized doctors who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific medical history and current health status.

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Conclusion

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A GFR of 8 indicates that the kidneys are severely dysfunctional, and dialysis is often necessary. Recovery to the point of being able to discontinue dialysis is rare without a kidney transplant, especially in cases of chronic kidney disease where the organ is scarred and damaged.

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