Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • What Are Kidney Function Tests?
  • Understanding Your Test Results
  • When Should You Get Tested?
  • What Happens After the Test?

Kidney Function Tests: Your Window to Kidney Health

Kidney Function Tests: Your Window to Kidney Health

Why Kidney Tests Matter

Kidney function tests are crucial tools for detecting and monitoring kidney health. These simple tests can reveal a wealth of information about your kidneys' performance.
Contents
  • What Are Kidney Function Tests?
  • Understanding Your Test Results
  • When Should You Get Tested?
  • What Happens After the Test?

What Are Kidney Function Tests?

Kidney function tests are a group of blood and urine tests that measure how well your kidneys are working. The most common tests include estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), serum creatinine, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR). These tests help doctors assess kidney function and detect kidney disease.

Understanding Your Test Results

Your eGFR is a key indicator of kidney function, with normal values typically above 90 mL/min/1.73 m2. A lower eGFR may suggest kidney damage. The ACR test measures albumin in your urine, with values below 30 mg/g considered normal. Higher levels can indicate kidney problems.
Kidney function tests are blood and urine tests that assess how well kidneys are working. They include eGFR, serum creatinine, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio tests.

When Should You Get Tested?

Regular kidney function tests are recommended for people at risk of kidney disease, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney problems. Your doctor may suggest annual testing if you're in a high-risk group. Even if you're not at high risk, it's a good idea to have your kidney function checked during routine check-ups.

What Happens After the Test?

If your test results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further testing or monitoring. This could include repeat tests, imaging studies, or referral to a kidney specialist (nephrologist). Early detection of kidney problems can lead to better outcomes, so it's important to follow up on any abnormal results.

FAQs

Are kidney function tests painful?

No, they typically involve a simple blood draw and urine sample.

How long do test results take?

Results are usually available within a few days.

Can I eat before a kidney function test?

Follow your doctor's instructions, but fasting is not usually required.

How often should I get tested?

Annually if you're at high risk, or as recommended by your doctor.

Can lifestyle changes improve test results?

Yes, healthy habits can positively impact kidney function over time.

Knowledge is Power

Regular kidney function tests are a powerful tool for maintaining your overall health and catching potential problems early.
Ready to take charge of your kidney health? Ask Doctronic about scheduling your next kidney function test.
Additional References
  1. National Kidney Foundation. K/DOQI clinical practice guidelines for chronic kidney disease: evaluation, classification, and stratification. Am J Kidney Dis 2002; 39:S1.
  2. Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) CKD Work Group. KDIGO 2012 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease. Kidney Int Suppl 2013; 3:1.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.