By now you may be aware that your kidneys perform several crucial functions in your body. But what if they stop adequately functioning?

How would you identify whether your kidneys are functioning healthily or not? Are you clueless about how to be aware of your kidney function?

Worry no more. We’re here to help you explore kidney function tests, an effective way of detecting whether your kidneys are functioning well or not.

Let’s begin with what these kidney function tests are.

What are kidney function tests?

Kidney function tests measure how well your kidneys are functioning. These can be performed on blood or urine. Majority of the kidney tests measure the glomerular filtrate rate (GFR). The GFR scales how well your kidneys remove waste from your body.

How do the kidneys function?

Before diving further deep into the kidney function tests, it is essential for you to understand how your kidneys function.

You may already know, the urinary system of your body includes your kidneys. The two kidneys are located in the rear of your belly, directly behind your ribs. They help in the removal of waste products from your body as urine.

Additionally, they have a few more functions

• They play a vital role in the production of blood pressure-maintaining hormones.
• They produce your body’s red blood cells. These cells are responsible for transporting oxygen.
• Kidneys help in producing Vitamin D, which keeps muscles and bones healthy.

Why would you require testing for kidney function?

The functioning of the kidneys is impacted by a number of diseases, including diabetes and high blood pressure. Your healthcare provider may utilise kidney function tests to keep an eye on any potential problems you may be experiencing.

You may also need a kidney function test if you have any symptoms that point to possible kidney problems.

Here are a few symptoms:

• Presence of blood in the urine (Hematuria)
• Dysuria, or painful urination
• Need to urinate often
• Issues in initiating urination

Types Of Kidney Function Tests

There are different types of kidney function tests that your doctor may recommend for you. Each one provides specific details regarding kidney function and overall health.

Know them before you opt for them.

Blood Tests

Serum Creatinine Test: This measures the blood's creatinine content. Creatinine is a waste substance that is generated when muscle cells break down. High creatinine readings would indicate a decline in renal function or a number of kidney-related issues.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test : Blood Urea Nitrogen is a measurement of the amount of nitrogen derived from urea in the blood. Urea Nitrogen is one waste product that is created when proteins break down. Elevated BUN values may indicate kidney damage, dehydration, or other medical conditions.

The glomerular filtration rate estimate (eGFR): It is computed using a formula that takes into account the creatinine levels, age, gender, and other variables. The rate at which the kidneys eliminate waste from the blood is measured by eGFR, which is used to evaluate kidney function.

Tests on Urine

Urine Analysis: This test looks for abnormalities, including blood, protein, glucose, or other chemicals, in a urine sample. Because the presence of these in the urine can be a sign of kidney or urinary tract issues.

Test for Protein in Urine: This test measures the precise amount of protein in the urine. High protein levels may be a sign of renal disease or damage.

24-Hour Urine Collection: To measure components like protein, creatinine and electrolytes, urine is collected for an entire day. This allows for a more accurate evaluation of kidney function.

Imaging Tests

Ultrasound: Ultrasound method can identify kidney issues, tumours and structural abnormalities.

CT Scan or MRI: Kidney stones, tumours, and other diseases affecting kidney function can be diagnosed with the help of these imaging tests. They provide exact images of your kidneys and surrounding structures.

Other Specialised Tests

Kidney Biopsy: To diagnose kidney diseases or determine the level of damage, kidney biopsy is used. It is conducted by taking a sample of your kidney tissue which is examined under a microscope.

Renal Scan: This procedure uses advanced imaging techniques to evaluate kidney function and blood flow. It is done by injecting a small amount of radioactive material into your bloodstream.

Importance of kidney Function Tests

Early Detection: Kidney function tests help in the early diagnosis of kidney disease. Thereby, it gives you an indication of early treatment needs.

Monitoring Health Conditions: They promote the monitoring of illnesses like Diabetes and Hypertension.

Treatment Monitoring: These tests help keep an eye on how well drugs or treatments that may affect kidney function are working.

Preventive Health: You can regularly conduct tests to prevent kidney problems beforehand. You can always seek the advice of a healthcare provider for expert kidney function testing.

Details About Test

How does a kidney urine test work?

Urine tests lasting 24 hours are carried out at home. Your healthcare provider will provide you with a container to collect pee for a 24-hour urine test.

On the day of test:

• When you wake up, go to the toilet as usual to urinate. Urinate into the container itself then and for the rest of the day.
• When you wake up on the second day, pee into the container. Complete dropping of your sample at the laboratory or office of the healthcare professional to finish the test.

What goes on in a blood test for kidneys?

You may visit the healthcare provider and give him your blood sample. He will collect blood in a test tube using a tiny needle.

After a kidney test, what can you expect?

Most kidney function tests are simple with no negative side effects. Following a blood test, some individuals encounter:

• Swelling
• Dizziness
• Exhaustion

Urine and blood tests usually don't result in problems or pain over time. But, if you experience persistent discomfort & exhaustion, make an appointment with your doctor.

Kidney function tests are the overlooked heroes of preventative healthcare. They provide deep insights into your health. Accepting these tests as standard parts of health care provides the knowledge about your own health condition. You can see potential issues early, and take preventative action. Thereby, you can open the door to a happier and healthier life.