Your kidneys are essential to maintaining the health of your body. They filter waste and excess fluids from your blood, regulate blood pressure, and produce hormones that help control red blood cell production and keep bones strong. However, like any other organ in your body, your kidneys can also suffer from various diseases and conditions that affect their function.
If you’re in the UK and want to check your kidney function, you can undergo a kidney function test. This article will give you an overview of kidney function tests UK and what you can expect from the procedure.
What is a Kidney Function Test in the UK?
A kidney function test, also known as a renal function test, is a series of blood and urine tests that measure how well your kidneys are working. The tests can detect if your kidneys are filtering waste and fluids properly and if they’re producing enough hormones. The tests can also detect if you have any underlying kidney disease or damage.
There are different types of kidney function tests, but the most common ones are:
Serum Creatinine Test: This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood. High levels of creatinine can indicate that your kidneys are not functioning properly.
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) Test: This test calculates your kidney function based on your age, gender, and creatinine levels. It can determine if your kidneys are filtering waste and fluids properly.
Urinalysis Test: This test checks your urine for the presence of protein, blood, or other substances that should not be there. High levels of protein or blood in your urine can indicate kidney damage.
Why do you need a kidney function test?
Your doctor may recommend a kidney function test if you have symptoms of kidney disease, such as swelling in your legs, fatigue, or frequent urination. You may also need a kidney function test if you have a history of kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. The test can help your doctor detect any kidney problems early and monitor your condition.
What to Expect During a Kidney Function Test in the UK
A kidney function test is a simple and non-invasive procedure that can be done in a clinic or hospital. The test involves drawing a blood sample and collecting a urine sample. You may need to fast for several hours before the test, and you may also need to avoid certain medications or supplements that can affect your kidney function.
The online blood testing sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the results will be sent to your doctor. The findings will be interpreted and discussed with you by your doctor. If your test results indicate kidney problems, your doctor may recommend further tests or treatments.
Conclusion
A kidney function test is an important tool for monitoring your kidney health. If you’re in the UK and have concerns about your kidney function, talk to your doctor about getting a kidney function test. Early detection and treatment of kidney problems can help prevent or slow down the progression of kidney disease. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and taking care of your kidneys can go a long way toward keeping your body healthy.