Kidney Function Tests: Types & Procedure
Kidneys are the organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, balancing body fluids, and producing hormones that help regulate blood pressure and red blood cell production. Kidney function test are medical tests used to evaluate how well the kidneys are working. Different types of kidney function tests can provide valuable information about kidney health, and in this blog post, we will discuss their types and procedures.
Types of Kidney Function Tests
Your doctor can order different types of kidney function tests to analyze your kidney function, such as:
Serum creatinine test
This blood test determines the presence of a waste product called creatinine in one’s blood. Generally, kidneys filter out the creatinine from the bloodstream. If there are high levels of creatinine, it indicates a kidney problem.
Urinalysis
A urinalysis examines urine for the detection of protein and blood. While the presence of protein in urine can indicate various conditions, not all are disease-related. Urinary protein levels can also be elevated due to underlying factors like infection or intense physical exercise. Your healthcare provider may advise repeating the test after a few weeks to compare the results.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test evaluates waste products in the bloodstream, specifically by measuring the amount of nitrogen present. Urea nitrogen, a byproduct of protein breakdown, is included in this measurement. An average BUN level ranges from 7 to 20 mg/dL and higher levels could indicate various health issues.
Procedures for Kidney Function Tests
Kidney function tests are essential diagnostic tools that help assess the health of the kidneys. There are two primary procedures for kidney function tests: collecting a 24-hour urine sample and obtaining blood samples.
24-hour urine sample
In a 24-hour urine sample collection, the individual is required to collect all the urine they produce in a 24-hour period. The urine is then analyzed to determine the levels of various substances, such as creatinine and protein, which provide information about how well the kidneys are functioning. This test helps identify conditions, such as kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and other kidney-related disorders.
Blood samples
Blood samples are also used to measure kidney function. A blood test can measure the levels of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and other waste products in the bloodstream. These waste products are filtered out by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. If the levels of these waste products in the blood are high, it may indicate that the kidneys are not functioning correctly.
Who should go for Kidney Function Tests?
It is important to note that kidney function tests are not just for those with a history of kidney disease or kidney problems. Anyone can benefit from kidney function testing, especially those with risk factors for kidney disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney disease. If you have any concerns about your kidney health, speak with your healthcare provider about getting tested.
Additionally, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to help prevent kidney disease. It includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.
Kidney function tests are important medical tests that can provide valuable information about your kidneys. Regular kidney function testing can also help prevent further damage to them and slow the progression of kidney disease.