Understanding the appropriate time to schedule a kidney function test

The kidneys are one of our body's most vital organs. Their primary function is to filter harmful waste and discharge it as urine. The kidneys are strongly influenced by our health, lifestyle, and medical issues. Men and women both develop kidney difficulties as they age, owing to pre-existing medical conditions and other causes.

A kidney function test (KFT Test) is a routine procedure. This test is typically recommended by doctors during illness, pregnancy, and routine health checkups. Wastes and excess fluid are removed from the circulation by healthy kidneys. Blood and urine tests can be used to determine how well the kidneys are performing and how rapidly body waste is being eliminated.

The KFT test is performed on a blood sample, although it is also possible to analyses a urine sample for some parameters. Urine testing, on the other hand, is uncommon. If the doctor understands the specific problem with the kidneys, a urine sample test is recommended.

Who Should Get a Kidney Function Test Done?

People over the age of 18 should have a KFT Test performed as part of their annual health checkup to rule out renal disease and aid in early diagnosis.

If you have conditions that can hurt your kidneys, such as diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of renal disease, and you're having difficulties sleeping, urinating frequently, or feeling tired, doctors recommend KFT Test.

What are the functions of your kidneys?

Your urinary system includes your kidneys. The two kidneys are located right below the ribcage in the back of your belly. They assist your body in filtering waste items and excreting them in the form of urine. Your kidneys are also necessary for the production of:

• Hormones that keep blood pressure in check.
• The oxygen-carrying red blood cells in your body.
• Vitamin D is necessary for bone and muscle health.

What KFT Test for Kidney Problems?

During suspected kidney issues, a KFT test may be performed. Kidney disease is characterized by the following symptoms:

• Passing is difficult. Urine or urination discomfort
• Urination is frequent, especially at night.
• Urine with blood
• Fatigue or weakness: The kidney is involved in the formation of RBC, which can lead to a reduction in oxygen availability.
• Blood pressure that is too high
• Swollen Hands or feet can occur as a result of fluid buildup in the body.
• The accumulation of trash in circulation might cause frequent stomach distress.
• Kidney disease can also cause persistent itching, chest pain, and breathing difficulties.

What is the type of test included in the KFT test

The kidneys' primary role is to remove waste from our bodies. As a result, the kidney function profile includes tests that are critical to kidney health.

1. Serum Creatinine Test: A buildup of creatinine is a waste product from muscle tissue breakdown.  The kidney filters creatinine from the blood and clears it through urination. Severe kidney disease, uncontrolled diabetes, severe dehydration, cardiac problems, and hyperactive glands are all indicated by elevated creatinine levels.
2. Blood Urea Nitrogen:  The blood urea nitrogen (bun) is produced through protein that is a breakdown in our body. Our body should have a urea nitrogen level with some specific limits. Sometimes, urea nitrogen in our blood can also be increased due to the intake of certain medicines. So, it is recommended to have a discussion with your doctor regarding your present medication in case you have BUN level is elevated.
3. Estimated GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate): The estimated GFR evaluates the capacity of the kidney to filter the waste from your body. The normal serum creatinine does not reflect the normal GFR for a patient. It is better to estimate glomerular filtration rate (EGFR) as having a measurement for the assessment of renal function. The measurement is not easy, instead, EGFR uses serum creatinine, age, and race.
4. Urinalysis: A urinalysis is done to eliminate the presence of protein(proteinuria) and blood in the urine (hematuria).
5. Albumin-creatinine ratio: Albumin-creatinine ratio basically indicates severe chronic kidney disease.

When do we need to have a Kidney Function Test (KFT Test)?

The people who are suffering from the following conditions or problems have a severe risk of kidney disorder. The doctor recommends them to have RFT (renal function test) in some of the cases:

• Diabetes patient

• High blood pressure
• Tumor problem
• Old aged people
• Kidney failure
• Dehydration
• Autoimmune Disorder
• Already have kidney problems
• Blood in urine
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Painful urination

Most people prefer to have routine health checkups to stay healthy and fit and evaluate their kidney function.

What can happen during a Kidney Urine Test?

You may have 24hours of urine test. If you may be given a container to collect urine. On the day of the test you may have the following:

• After wake-up early morning you can have urinated in the restroom.
• For rest of the day, you have to collect urine into the container.
• Complete the test by dropping your sample at the laboratory.

What are the Normal Range/Values for KFT Test?

The abnormal range from a kidney function test indicates some sort of kidney disorder in a person. Though, the KFT test alone can’t define the reason for the problem. Sometimes, you may have an abnormal report due to a problem in some other organs.

However, some kidney issues are easily treatable and precautions can take.

Point to be Noted

“An active and healthy lifestyle can positively impact the kidney, through few changes in your lifestyle such as higher water intake, lower consumption of salt, giving up on drugs & alcohol.”

You can take up the KFT test and enjoy cost-effective rates on these crucial tests. CNC Pathlab is a leading name in the medical world that offers affordable KFT test prices for primarily three tests: Urea, Uric Acid, and Creatinine.

Your kidneys are essential for the synthesis of Red Blood Cells and Vitamin D in the body, and any abnormalities in the kidney can lead to irreparable damage. We, at CNC Pathlab, are equipped with advanced technology and experienced medical professionals who help us deliver the most accurate KFT blood test results at affordable costs.

You can also have video consultations with our professional and well-known doctors and get suggestions and consult yourself or your loved ones.