All blood draws are performed by trained phlebotomists
Kidney Function Blood Test
A kidney function blood test, also known as a renal function panel, evaluates various markers to assess the health and function of the kidneys.
Here are the markers included in a kidney function blood test:
- Sodium: Sodium levels are regulated by the kidneys and play a crucial role in fluid balance and blood pressure regulation.
- Creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscle metabolism and excreted by the kidneys. Elevated levels of creatinine in the blood may indicate impaired kidney function because the kidneys are less able to filter and remove creatinine from the body.
- Urea: Urea in the blood is an important indicator of kidney function and overall health. The level of urea in the blood is commonly measured through a Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) test. Elevated BUN levels may indicate kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or other conditions affecting kidney function.
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): eGFR is a calculated value based on creatinine levels, age, sex, and race. It provides an estimate of the kidney’s filtration rate and helps assess overall kidney function. A lower eGFR indicates reduced kidney function.
Here are some red flag symptoms that may prompt the need for Kidney Function Blood Test:
- Swelling (Edema): Puffiness around the eyes, swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet due to fluid retention.
- Changes in urination: Increased frequency, especially at night (nocturia); Decreased urine output; Dark or foamy urine; Blood in the urine (hematuria); Pain or burning sensation during urination.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or weakness, which can result from the build-up of waste products in the blood.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, which can be related to fluid build-up in the lungs.
- High blood pressure (Hypertension): Elevated blood pressure can be both a cause and a symptom of kidney disease.
- Persistent nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach and vomiting, often related to the build-up of waste products.
- Loss of appetite: Decreased desire to eat, which can be associated with kidney dysfunction.
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating: Toxins that kidneys fail to filter out can affect brain function.
- Muscle cramps: Imbalances in electrolytes, such as calcium and phosphorus, can cause muscle cramps.
- Itchy skin: Persistent itching can be due to the accumulation of waste products in the blood.
These parameters provide valuable information about kidney function, electrolyte balance, and overall health. Abnormal results may indicate various kidney conditions, including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic disorders. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management if abnormalities are detected. Additional tests, such as urine tests and imaging studies, may be recommended to further evaluate kidney function and underlying causes of kidney disease.