What are Kidney Function Tests?

When kidney issues develop in the body, they typically do not show initial symptoms.  That is why kidney diseases are said to be a silent killer. Contributors such as lifestyle diseases including hypertension, obesity, and type 2 diabetes quietly pave the way for acute renal failure. It is only when the levels of urea, acids, and creatinine spike in the bloodstream, the patient becomes aware. 

At this point, one or both kidneys fail to efficiently filter blood and eliminate waste from the genitourinary system. The limited recourse then involves procedures like dialysis or renal transplants. Early awareness and management of lifestyle factors can play a crucial role in preventing such drastic outcomes.

The demand for dialysis and renal transplants has been escalating across the country. Reports suggest that the mortality rates due to CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) will only spike in the upcoming years. As per a global study, chronic kidney disease will ascend to the fifth position among life-threatening diseases. 

However, on-time kidney function tests can make kidney-related issues and kidney infection reversal possible. Early treatment can generally ensure that there is no relapse in kidney functions and prevent the disease's reoccurrence. 

In this article, we have rounded up details about essential kidney function tests that can check kidney-related issues in the initial stages. By taking vigilante actions, you can save yourself and your family members from the risk of this fatal disease.

Let’s begin!

Kidney Function Tests and their Importance

Kidney Function Tests (KFT) are vital for patients with diabetes 2 and hypertension. In most cases, the genesis of CKD is considered diabetes 2. With the help of blood specimens and urine tests, healthcare professionals determine how your kidney has been functioning. Generally, they assess the glomerular filtration rate through your KFT. The glomerular filtration rate determines how well your kidney has been excreting waste fluids from the bloodstream. 

In case your healthcare advisor detects any imbalance, they take it as a red flag. They advise you on lifestyle changes and prescribe medications to cure your kidney-related illness or infection in its initial stage. In addition, you can save your life from the risk of complete kidney damage with the help of an on-time analysis of symptoms. Kidney damage is often spurred by the excessive leakage of protein from your urinary system. 

Types of Kidney Function Tests

To check the efficiency of your kidney functions, your healthcare provider may advise you on one or two renal function tests. These tests are determined based on your age, lifestyle, risk factors, and comorbidities.  

Blood Tests 

Check out the following KFT based on blood specimens:

1. Serum Creatinine: Serum Creatinine test is done to see the level of creatinine in your body. A high level of serum creatinine denotes more muscular breakdown but less elimination of wastes from the body. 

A creatinine level higher than 1.4 mg/dl in men and 1.2 mg/dl in women is considered a red flag sign of kidney problems or kidney infections. It suggests immediate treatment. 

Generally, fasting is not compulsory for this test. But, before testing, you should inform your doctor about your over-the-counter medications and other life-saving drugs that you often take.

2. Estimated GFR: GFR test is conducted to examine the severity of kidney disease or kidney damage. The lower your GFR rate, the more damaged condition of your kidney will be analysed. Check out the following parameters of GFR rates: 

1. GFR (90 or <) healthy kidney functions; minimal to no loss
2. GFR (60 to 89) minimal loss in kidney’s ability
3. GFR (30 to 59) moderate loss in kidney functions
4. GFR (15 to 29) severe damage to the kidney
5. GFR (15 or >) complete kidney failure

3. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): Blood Urea Nitrogen test detects the amount of nitrogen in your body. Nitrogen is the breakdown product of protein that should be in a balanced state. A normal level of blood urea nitrogen ranges from 7 to 20 mg/dl.  An elevated level of nitrogen can suggest a health issue, including kidney problems. 

Sometimes, its level surges due to the intake of certain over-the-counter medications. Hence, inform your doctor about the drugs that you have been taking. This will help him to analyse the situation in a much better way. 

24-hours urine tests:

Check out the following 24-hour urine tests to screen for abnormality in kidney function: 

• Urinalysis: The urinalysis test is a 24-hour urine test that detects the presence of blood and protein in the genito-urinary system. However, this does not determine that the elevated level of protein is the cause of any potential kidney disease. It can be due to other reasons. Hence, your doctor will advise you to prepare for a creatinine blood test.

• Microalbuminuria: This is also a urine test that examines a specific protein i.e. albumin in your urine. A high level of albumin signifies that you are on the verge of the risk of this chronic disease. 

Watch out for these Symptoms of Kidney Problems

Diabetes 2 and hypertension are considered primary causes of kidney failure. But, in case you have been experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should not delay. They can indicate the warning signs for acute or chronic renal failure. But, on-time detection of the disease can help you the most. You will be able to recover from the severe kidney issue. The symptoms of kidney problems include:

• Bleeding in urine
• Frequent urge to pee
• Urination with discomfort or pain
• Problem with starting to urinate

Let’s Conclude

In a nutshell, kidney function tests (KFT) detect the symptoms of kidney-related issues in the initial stage. Hence, if you are on the verge of the risk of kidney dysfunction, you should approach your healthcare professional. On-time diagnosis and on-time chronic kidney disease treatment will prevent the risk of renal transplant and dialysis. 

Routine assessments, therefore, act as a pre-emptive strike, allowing early detection of potential health issues before they escalate. Equally crucial is investing in a comprehensive health insurance plan, serving as a financial safety net during unforeseen medical exigencies. Care Health Insurance not only safeguards your well-being but also mitigates the financial burden associated with high-cost treatments. When you prioritise preventive care and ensure robust insurance, you can navigate your healthcare journey with confidence while safeguarding your financial stability.

>> Also Read: 6 Health Tips to Prevent Chronic Kidney Diseases

Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.